Tottenham, London – February 25, 2025 — A 75-year-old woman, identified as Pepita Sakirecili, also known as Pepita Garcia, was found dead in a Tottenham residence after police forced entry on January 13 following a welfare check.
Police believe Pepita may have died before Christmas 2024, though the exact cause of death remains unknown. The discovery was made at a property in Reynardson Road, N17, after the London Ambulance Service raised concerns.
A man, Dominic Whitton, 40, of Reynardson Road, has been charged with preventing a lawful burial as part of the investigation.
Appeal for Information
Detectives are appealing for witnesses and background information to help piece together Pepita’s life and final months.
Detective Inspector Barry Hart urged anyone with knowledge of Pepita’s recent history to come forward:
“We are keen to hear from anyone who may be able to provide any background on her life. We would like to build a picture as to what may have happened to Pepita.”
Investigators are particularly interested in:
- Mobile phone or dashcam footage from Reynardson Road between October 16, 2024, and January 31, 2025.
- A taxi driver who transported Pepita to Reynardson Road in August 2024 and reportedly saw her struggling to lift building supplies. Police believe this driver may have been concerned for her welfare and could have recorded footage of her on a mobile phone.
What Happened to Pepita?
Despite months passing since her believed time of death, the cause remains unclear. Authorities are urging anyone with knowledge of her movements, health, or any unusual activity at the property to come forward.
How to Help
- Call the Metropolitan Police: 101, quoting case reference
- Report anonymously: Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111
This is a developing investigation, and police are working to establish the circumstances around Pepita’s death and why her body was left undiscovered for so long. More updates will follow as the case progresses.
