An Italian musician died after going missing on a night out in Hackney while visiting friends for the weekend.

Luca Ricca, 23, had travelled down to the capital from Leeds, where he had been living since coming to the country last year.

It is believed he got separated from friends in the early hours of Sunday morning after spending the evening in a Hackney pub. He was a singer and guitarist in Own Boo, a band he formed in his hometown of Brescia. He had dreams of becoming a rock star and was a huge fan of The Rolling Stones, David Bowie and Lou Reed.

He moved to Leeds to follow his dreams, and six months ago began working as an assistant at The Hair Studio salon.

His boss Harry Boocock saw Luca on the Friday before he went to London and was set to meet him in the pub on the Monday.

“Luca was first a friend before joining us at The Hair Studio,” he told the Gazette. “He was liked by everyone, both clients and work colleagues, and will be missed greatly.

“He added something special to the salon with his Italian flair and flawless manners.”

Luca’s body has been flown back to Italy this week for his funeral.

Hackney police did not respond to a request for comment from the Gazette. An inquest will be held at Poplar Coroner’s Court in November.

Did you know Luca? Contact the Gazette on 020 7433 0104 or sam.gelder@archant.co.uk with your tributes.