Four people have been arrested in connection with the investigation into the murder of John Pordage in Chelmsford. 

A 15-year-old boy from Chelmsford, a 22-year-old man from Chelmsford and an 18-year-old man from Billericay were arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender and a 16-year-old boy from Chelmsford has also been arrested on suspicion of murder. 

The 22-year-old man has been released under investigation.

The remaining three people are currently in custody for questioning.

The family of John Pordage, a former student of William de Ferrers School in South Woodham Ferrers, who was shot in the chest at a petrol station in Chelmsford have described him as a “humble, caring young man”. 

Sue Wilson, the mum of John Pordage, 34, of Galleywood, said: “My dear lovely, handsome son John has been taken away from me, his family and friends. 

“We are all so heartbroken. 

“John was fun-loving and wore his heart on his sleeve. 

“He was known for his big personality and friendly nature. He was a cheeky chap and had so much to look forward to. 

“We loved him, everyone loved him. He had the biggest heart. 

"John loved working out at the gym and awas into healthy eating. He was also an accomplished artist who loved creativity and design. 

“John was a humble, caring young man who would support everyone and do anything for anybody. 

“We are going to miss him so very much. Words cannot describe the pain I am going through right now. 

“I would like to thank everyone for their dear messages of support.”

Police and the ambulance service were called at about 2.10am on Saturday to Baddow Road.

The 34-year-old victim, who police have now identified as John Pordage, of Galleywood, and another man, aged 25, were outside the BP garage near the Army and Navy roundabout when a blue Ford Fiesta pulled up.

Mr Pordage was shot by an occupant of the car, which drove off.

He was taken to hospital, where he sadly died. His 25-year-old friend was uninjured.

A post-mortem examination has been carried out, which found Mr Pordage died as a result of a gunshot wound to the chest Friends of his have paid tribute to him online, describing him as a "legend" and "a really nice guy".

The road has been closed for forensic examination work.

Senior investigating officer, Detective Chief Inspector Stephen Jennings, of the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate, said: “We are progressing our enquiries and believe this incident involved people known to each other. 

“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.” 

In a fresh statement released on Sunday, Mr Jennings added: “My thoughts are with Mr Pordage’s family during this extremely difficult time and our enquiries are progressing into finding those responsible for his tragic death. 

“We are continuing to keep an open mind about the motive behind this shocking incident. 

“From our enquiries so far, we believe this was a chance meeting involving people known to each other. 

“There was an exchange of words, which escalated into a violent disturbance during which Mr Pordage was shot. 

"We have established that at the time of the incident, both he, his friend and the suspect were not inside any vehicles.

"The suspect left the scene in a blue Ford Fiesta, which has now been recovered and a number of addresses have been searched as part of the investigation. 

“Numerous witnesses have come forward and I’d like to thank them and the community for their continued support. 

“I still ask anyone who has any information about this incident to please get in touch with us, or Crimestoppers.” 

Superintendent Steve Johnson said: “Residents will have seen extra police officers in Chelmsford this weekend. 

“We do not believe there is a wider risk to the community but we will continue these extra patrols to provide reassurance to the community as the murder investigation continues. 

“As well as providing reassurance to members of the public, my officers will also deal with anyone intent on causing any trouble. 

“Anyone who has concerns is encouraged to speak to our officers or call us.” 

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. 

“My local policing teams are out on extra patrols and we are also working with partners to provide reassurance to the community. 

“If anyone has any concerns, or information that could help with our investigation, I would encourage them to speak to our officers or call us.” 

Baddow Road remains closed for forensic examination work.

Members of the public are thanked for their patience.  Witnesses and anyone with information are asked to call 101.  Alternatively, contact independent crime-fighting charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or www.crimestoppers-uk.org.

Police are appealing for witnesses and anyone with information to call 101.

Alternatively, contact independent crime-fighting charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or www.crimestoppers-uk.org.