East London Man Arrested for Brutal Murder in Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park
A 36-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of murder last Friday, August 20, following the discovery of a dead man in Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park, east London. The suspect is now in police custody as the investigation heats up.
Man Found Dead With Head Injury in Cemetery Park
On Monday, August 16, at around 7am, London Ambulance Service alerted police after a 50-year-old man was found unresponsive with a head injury in Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park, Southern Grove, E3. Paramedics and officers rushed to the scene but tragically, the victim was pronounced dead.
A post-mortem on Thursday, August 19 revealed blunt force trauma to the head as the cause of death. Police are still searching both the cemetery and a nearby residence for evidence.
Investigation Points to Possible Homophobic Motive
Detective Superintendent Pete Wallis from the Met’s Specialist Crime Command said the arrest is a key breakthrough. “Officers have worked round the clock to bring justice for the victim and his family,” he said.
“The victim was attacked in what is suspected to be a homophobically motivated attack, but we remain open minded,” Wallis added. “We are working closely with the LGBT Advisory Group.”
He urged the public to come forward if they were in the Cemetery Park area during the early hours of August 16, stressing: “We still need information and want everyone to be vigilant about their safety.”
Community Shocked, Police Boost Patrols
Superintendent Mike Hamer, Central East Leadership and Support, expressed shock at the “horrendous and brutal attack,” sending condolences to the victim’s family and friends.
“An extensive crime scene remains, and police are meticulously searching for forensic evidence. There will be an increased police presence to reassure the community,” Hamer said.
If you witnessed anything or have information, call the Incident Room on 0208 345 3865, dial 101, or tweet @MetCC quoting reference 1277/16. You can also submit tips securely online here.
