Hammer Horror: Erik Feld Guilty of Brutal Murder of Ranjith ‘Roy’ Kankanamalage
Erik Feld, 38, was found guilty of murdering 50-year-old Ranjith ‘Roy’ Kankanamalage after his DNA was discovered under the victim’s fingernails. Feld’s chilling obsession with hammer attacks emerged during the investigation, with police uncovering disturbing footage and research on violent assaults linked to such weapons.
DNA Evidence Seals Feld’s Fate
The trial at the Old Bailey concluded on Thursday, 23 March, delivering justice for Ranjith. Detectives had launched a full murder inquiry after Ranjith’s battered body was found in Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park in August 2021, with fatal head injuries caused by a hammer.
Feld, who lived nearby, was arrested after a separate hammer-wielding incident on 18 August, just days before the murder. Further probing revealed a trove of mallets and a sledgehammer at his home, plus his phone filled with horrifying content glorifying hammer violence.
Police Speak Out on Justice and Community Trust
Detective Chief Inspector Joanna Yorke said: “Erik Feld is a dangerous and violent man driven by hatred. We hope Ranjith’s family, friends, and the wider LGBTQ+ community in Tower Hamlets finally feel some justice now he’s been convicted. We’re committed to treating anyone who contacts us with respect and confidentiality.”
Chief Superintendent James Conway added: “The support from Tower Hamlets’ diverse community, including LGBTQ+ groups, has been vital. We’re focused on rebuilding trust and ensuring every resident receives the policing they deserve.”
LGBTQ+ Community Reacts to Verdict
Jack Gilbert, speaking for the Met’s LGBT+ Independent Advisory Group, condemned the horrific violence. “Our condolences go to Ranjith’s family and friends. Many in the LGBTQ+ community viewed this as a targeted hate attack. We worked closely with police to ensure lessons were learned from past failures, such as those involving Stephen Port.”
Feld Faces Sentencing
Erik Feld, of Tredegar Road, E3, now awaits sentencing at the Old Bailey following his murder conviction. The brutal killing has sent shockwaves through Tower Hamlets, spotlighting ongoing issues of violence and hate crimes within London’s LGBTQ+ community.
