Sudden death of Cally community activist David Lear

The Cally community and Councillors have expressed shock and sadness at the sudden death of the local campaigning journalist, David Lear, on Saturday 15th November.

David lived on Centurian Close and collapsed whilst recording events outside HMP Pentonville where a demonstration of pro-Palestinian campaigners had encountered a small counter protest. Friends say that David collapsed after seeing a young woman assaulted by a counter protestor and David attempted to video record the perpetrator. He suffered a heart attack and could not be resuscitated despite the efforts of police officers and paramedics.

David was a respected Cally and Islington community activist widely known across London for his journalism and videography coverage of protest movements and community action. David’s health had not been good having previously survived a heart attack. Friends have said he was determined to be present at a protest which passed right outside his home.

The Leader of Islington Council and Caledonian ward Councillor, Una O’Halloran said: “David was such a well known local activist who supported and documented a wide range of causes. He was a real community champion and citizen journalist. He was a regular for lunch in Kigi cafe and, anywhere he went, he had a camera in his hand. He was often described as a frontline witness to many events that never made it onto broadcast TV. He supported an eclectic mix of causes and he was a passionate advocate. But he presented his arguments with unfailing courtesy and kindness. My best wishes and condolences to his family and many friends and comrades.”

Floral tributes have been left on Caledonian Rd opposite the junction with Wheelwright Street at the spot where David passed away. A vigil in his memory is being organised.