Human remains found in a south London river have been identified as missing woman Sarah Mayhew, 38. Two suspects are in custody, charged with her murder and dismemberment.
Grim Discovery in Mitcham
Met Police rushed to Rawnsley Avenue, Mitcham, at 2:18pm Tuesday after contractors uncovered a human torso during repair work. The remains were found about nine miles from parts of Sarah’s body recovered earlier.
Sarah, from Croydon, was last seen on the evening of March 8 in Sutton, southwest London. Partial remains were first discovered in Rowdown Fields, New Addington, last month, confirming her death.
Two Charged Over Murder
Gemma Watts, 48, and Steven Sansom, 44, now face charges of murder and preventing lawful burial. Police say the pair stand accused of brutally killing Sarah before dismembering her body with power tools.
Detective Inspector Thorpe stated officers will remain at the scene for a thorough investigation, adding, “This tragic case has shocked the community.”
Investigation and Additional Offences
A dog walker first alerted police after their pet uncovered a human bone. DNA tests confirmed the remains belonged to Sarah Mayhew.
Steven Sansom, from Burnell Road, Sutton, is also charged with three counts related to indecent images of a child.
Police currently have no one else under suspicion and are not seeking anyone else in connection to the crime.
Police Urge Public to Help
Authorities ask anyone with information to come forward. Call 101 and quote reference 1656/02Apr if you can assist in bringing justice for Sarah Mayhew.
