25 Years On: Mystery of Ricky’s Thames Death Still Haunts Kingston
It’s been 25 years since Ricky, just 20, vanished after a night out and was tragically found drowned in the River Thames.
Night Out Turns Deadly
On Tuesday, 14 October 1997, Ricky had been drinking with friends in Kingston. The gang planned a night at a local nightclub but trouble struck earlier in town.
As they walked through the town centre, two white men, aged between 18 and 30, hurled racial abuse at Ricky and his friends. An altercation broke out between the men and Ricky’s mates. Ricky stayed out of the fight and later disappeared alone.
Seven days later, his body was pulled from the Thames at the end of Downhall Road.
Police Plea as Case Goes Cold
The Met has launched extensive investigations over the years — taking hundreds of statements and running multiple appeals — but no arrests or charges have been made.
Commander Catherine Roper, Specialist Crime, said: “It has been 25 years since Ricky died. My thoughts are with Ricky’s family and the pain they must still feel today.”
“I hope this appeal encourages people to come forward with any information, no matter how small. We remain hopeful to provide answers for the family, and we need the public’s help.”
Help Police Solve Ricky’s Death
The 1999 inquest returned an open verdict, leaving the case unsolved.
Detectives urge anyone with information to contact police on 101 or anonymously reach out to the charity Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.
