Man Murdered in New Haw: Gary Hopkins, 42, Remembered as ‘Heart of Gold’
Detectives from Surrey and Sussex’s Major Crime Team are hot on the trail after the shocking murder of Gary Hopkins in New Haw on Monday, 4 October. The 42-year-old victim’s family say he had a “heart of gold and would do anything for anyone.”
Police Seek Crucial Witnesses and Dashcam Footage
Detective Chief Inspector Charlotte Rimmer urged anyone who was near Byfleet Road (A318), where it crosses the River Wey by the White Hart pub, between 6:30pm and 8pm to come forward. She said:
“If you were driving, walking your dog, or just out in Riverside Park or around the Millpond area at that time, please get in touch. Your dashcam footage or sightings could be vital.”
Witnesses can report information via Surrey Police’s online form quoting crime reference PR/45210104788. Alternatively, call the charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or upload evidence through the Major Incident Public Portal.
River Search and Arrests Made
Last Friday, officers teamed up with Specialist Group International to search the River Wey near Heathervale Park as part of their enquiries.
The following day, a man was charged in connection with the murder:
- David Peter Jacobs, 31, of no fixed address, charged with murder, threatening with a bladed weapon, and failing to comply with a notice relating to protected information.
Four other men—two 18-year-olds and a 28-year-old from New Haw, plus a 19-year-old with no fixed address—were also arrested on suspicion of murder but have since been released under investigation.
Police continue to appeal for information as the investigation presses on.
