A 34-year-old man was killed in a drive-by shooting last night 'by a person known to him' police have said as they launched a murder probe. 

John Pordage, an electrician and bodybuilder with a 'heart of gold' died after a driver in a blue Ford Fiesta pulled into a BP garage in Chelmsford, Essex and fired a single shot at 2.10am this morning.

Mr Pordage, who was standing with his friend, was struck in the chest and was rushed to hospital where he died. Close friend Reece Haines, 33, said: 'John and I went to school with one another and have been the best of friends since.

'John was a joker, a real character, someone that would do anything for his friends and family, he had a heart of gold, he couldn't do enough for you, he was not only a gentleman but a loyal friend and family man.

'He was a hard worker and an extremely strong bodybuilder he had a passion for fitness and also loved to draw. 'He will be sadly missed but never ever forgotten, anyone that met John would know what a positive impact he'd have on your life, and it's hard to believe that my best friend is gone.

'It will be a massive funeral, he was extremely well liked and no one can understand why this has happened.'

He added in a direct message to John: 'Rest in peace my brother and I know you'll have everyone up there in hysterics just like you did down here.

'Make sure you have a JD and coke waiting for me mate, can't wait to see you again, all my love Reece x' The senior investigating officer, Detective Chief Inspector Stephen Jennings, of the Kent and Essex serious crime directorate, said: 'Several members of the public went to the aid of the victim and his friend, and I want to thank them for their assistance in what clearly would have been harrowing circumstances.

'We have spoken to a number of witnesses but I am keen to speak to anyone who saw what happened and has yet to come forward. Any information you have, however small you think it may be, could be vital in assisting our investigation.

'I also want to speak to anyone who saw a car matching the description of the suspect vehicle in the area before and after the incident and anyone who took mobile phone or dash cam footage of the incident.'

District commander Chief Inspector Ronnie Egan said: 'Incidents such as this are extremely rare and we believe this involved people known to each other.

'Although we believe there is no wider risk to the community, I know residents will be very concerned.'

Patrols in the area had been increased, he said.