The crime scene established following the discovery of human remains at Rowdown Fields in Lodge Lane, Croydon has now been lifted, Metropolitan Police confirmed today.
Police found the remains at the park around 9 am on April 2, and subsequent searches revealed additional remains believed to belong to the same victim. Forensic analysis by a specialist anthropologist confirmed the remains as human.
While authorities work to identify the victim, they are not yet able to determine the age, ethnicity, or gender of the individual.
Detective Inspector Martin Thorpe, leading the investigation, stated, “Our priority is to identify the victim, but until we are in possession of fuller facts, informed by the post-mortem examination, we are not in a position to confirm the person’s age, ethnicity, or gender.”
The police search effort continues, with samples sent for urgent forensic analysis and a special post-mortem examination scheduled for later this week. Detective Inspector Thorpe emphasized that the investigation is treated as a murder case, and the search effort remains ongoing.
Superintendent Lewis Collins, overseeing policing in South Area including Croydon, expressed gratitude for the community’s support in allowing officers to conduct their work. He urged against speculation and assured the public of regular updates as the investigation progresses.
Residents, like a 30-year-old dad who frequents Rowdown Fields for walks with his dog, expressed shock and concern over the discovery. He described the situation as terrifying, especially given the park’s popularity among families and children.
As the investigation unfolds, the community remains vigilant, while authorities continue their efforts to identify the victim and provide answers to the victim’s family, who are grappling with the loss of their loved one.
