10 Years On: Family Plea to Solve West Norwood Murder
The family of Ricardo Cunha, shot dead in his home a decade ago in a tragic case of mistaken identity, have made a heartfelt appeal for anyone with information to come forward and help catch his killer.
Ricardo Cunha Killed in Mistaken Identity Shooting
On the night of Saturday, 11 September 2010, 23-year-old Ricardo was with his girlfriend in their West Norwood flat when a knock at the door changed everything. Investigating the noise, Ricardo looked out of the bedroom window and was fatally shot.
Emergency services rushed to the scene, but Ricardo died within half an hour from a single gunshot wound to the head. Police believe he was not the intended target in the shooting.
£30,000 Reward Offered for Killer’s Capture
Since the murder, detectives have never stopped searching for answers. They released an image of a distinctive 1924 Webley Mark Six revolver—thought to be the murder weapon—and revealed it fired shots in a separate incident just three days later in Brixton.
The gun was recovered shortly after that second incident. Police suspect it may have been stolen from an unreported burglary before being used to kill Ricardo.
A reward of up to £30,000 is on offer for information that leads to the arrest and prosecution of Ricardo’s murderer.
Family and Police Make Emotional Appeal
“Ten years have passed since we lost our boy,” said Ricardo’s mother, Maria. “We still don’t have answers about why his life was taken so cruelly. Nothing will bring Ricardo back, but I want whoever did this to pay.”
“Ricardo was always kind and respectful. We don’t understand why someone would do this. The pain never goes away. Please, if you know something, help us find closure.”
Detective Sergeant Matt Flynn added: “Ricardo’s death shattered his family. We believe someone out there knows who did this. With time, loyalties change – if you have information, please give it now. You can remain anonymous via Crimestoppers.”
If you have any information, contact the police incident room on 0208 721 4005. Help bring justice for Ricardo.
