A 39-year-old man has been charged with murder after a body was found in a derelict building in east London.
Body Discovered During Missing Person Search
Police stormed a rundown building on Brockley Road, Lewisham, at 8:17am on Friday, 19 September. The search was part of a missing person investigation but ended in tragedy. The victim has been identified as Junior Ryan Coleman, who was reported missing on 20 August.
A post-mortem revealed Junior died from blunt force trauma to the head, triggering a full murder probe. Junior’s family have been informed and are receiving specialist support from police.
Suspect Arrested and Charged
Daniel Watkis, 39, of Glenarm Road, Hackney, was arrested on 25 September. He was charged with murder the next day and appeared at Bromley Magistrates’ Court where he was remanded in custody. Watkis is set to appear at the Old Bailey on 24 October.
Police Urge Witnesses to Come Forward
Detective Chief Inspector Sam Townsend said: “Our thoughts are with Junior’s family and friends during this incredibly difficult time. We’re working quickly to uncover the full circumstances surrounding his disappearance and murder.”
“If you knew Junior, especially if you saw him over the summer, please come forward. Any piece of information could be vital.”
Witnesses or anyone with information should contact police on 101 or online quoting CAD 1574/19SEP. You can also call the incident room on 020 8721 4961 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously at 0800 555 111.
