Deptford Double Murder Case Closed: Suspect Found Dead
The Met Police have wrapped up their investigation into the grim double homicide of Noel Brown and his daughter Marie Brown, whose strangled bodies were discovered in a Deptford flat on December 4, 2017.
Marie had gone to check on her father after he hadn’t been seen for days. Both were unlawfully killed by strangulation, confirmed at an inquest on November 12 at Southwark Coroner’s Court.
Prime Suspect Dead Before Charges
Detective Chief Inspector Simon Harding revealed that Nathaniel Henry, 37, was the main suspect. However, Henry was found dead on December 31, 2017, before the police could charge him with double murder.
“We would have pursued double murder charges had he been alive,” DCI Harding confirmed. The Met is no longer seeking any other suspects.
Forensic Evidence Ties Henry to Murders
- Months of CCTV tracked Henry going to and from Noel Brown’s flat.
- DNA linked Henry to blood found on a pillow at the scene.
- His DNA was also on Tubigrips believed to have been used to strangle Noel and Marie.
- The DNA profile, labelled ‘Unknown 7,’ matched a profile from a 2011 burglary and was linked through familial DNA to Henry.
Nathaniel Henry was reported missing on December 12, 2017, and later found dead near his Southwark home.
Family Speaks Out on Tragic Loss
Sharon Brown, Noel’s daughter: “Noel was a caring father and a jovial, loyal friend. His brutal death has left us devastated and without justice. Life has been shattered by this horrific loss.”
Cassandra and Vanita, Marie’s half-sister and daughter: “Marie was kind, gentle, and devoted to her children and father. We still struggle to comprehend why such evil took her away. We thank the Met and everyone who helped. Marie’s name will never be forgotten.”
The families have expressed deep gratitude to the Met for their thorough investigation while vowing to privately mourn their loved ones and carry on their legacy.
