Man Held Over Brutal Killing in East London Cemetery
A 36-year-old man was arrested on Friday, 20 August, on suspicion of murder. He is currently in custody at an East London police station.
Victim Found Dead in Tower Hamlets Cemetery
Police were called at around 7am on Monday, 16 August, after London Ambulance Service found a 50-year-old man unresponsive at Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park, Southern Grove, E3. The victim suffered a head injury and was pronounced dead at the scene. His next of kin have been informed.
Blunt Force Trauma Confirmed as Cause of Death
A post-mortem on Thursday, 19 August revealed the man died from blunt force trauma to the head. Police are continuing searches at the murder scene and a nearby residential address in Tower Hamlets.
Detectives Launch Hate Crime Investigation
Detective Superintendent Pete Wallis, from the Met’s Specialist Crime Command, said: “This arrest is a major breakthrough in our investigation. We’ve spoken to many witnesses, carried out house-to-house inquiries, and reviewed hours of CCTV footage. However, we urge anyone who was near Cemetery Park in the early hours of 16 August to come forward.”
“The victim is believed to have been attacked in a homophobically motivated assault, but we remain open-minded. We’re working closely with the LGBT Advisory Group. The investigation is fast-moving, and we remind the public to stay vigilant and aware of their surroundings.”
Community Stunned by Callous Attack
Superintendent Mike Hamer from Central East Leadership said: “This horrendous and brutal attack has shocked us all. Our thoughts are with the victim’s family and friends. An extensive crime scene remains in place while forensic teams comb the cemetery grounds.”
“Police presence in the area will increase to reassure the community. Anyone with information is urged to come forward.”
How to Help
- Call the Incident Room on 0208 345 3865
- Ring 101
- Tweet @MetCC quoting 1277/16
- Submit info online: MPS Operation Page
