A murder investigation has been launched following the death of 75-year-old John Murray, who was found unconscious at his Chiswick home last October.
Police were called on Saturday, 12 October 2024, to a residential address on Carlton Road after the London Ambulance Service discovered an unresponsive male. Despite efforts by emergency services, Mr Murray was sadly pronounced dead at the scene.
Head Injury Found to Be Result of Assault
An initial post-mortem in October listed the cause of death as a head injury. However, further pathology results later confirmed that the injury was inflicted by assault, prompting detectives to launch a murder investigation.
Family Issues Heartfelt Appeal
John Murray’s family, speaking publicly for the first time since the murder inquiry began, described their devastation:
“As a family, we are in complete shock to learn our Dad and Grandad was murdered. John had so much more life to live.
“We are struggling to understand why someone would harm a 75-year-old defenceless man in his own home. We’re appealing for anyone with information to please help the police get justice for our family.”
John, a retired father and grandfather, was a familiar face in the local community, often seen riding his motorbike or chatting in the communal gardens. He was last seen on the day he died, reportedly in good spirits.
Met Police Appeal for Witnesses and Footage
Detective Chief Inspector Brian Howie, from the Met’s Specialist Crime Command, is leading the investigation:
“My thoughts are with John’s family and the Chiswick community. We urgently need the public’s help to piece together what happened in the days and hours leading up to John’s death.
“Were you near Carlton Road on Saturday, 12 October? Did you see anything unusual — an argument, a struggle, or someone entering or leaving John’s flat?
“Even small details, CCTV, dashcam or doorbell footage from nearby could help build a clearer picture of what occurred.”
How to Help the Investigation
Anyone with information is urged to contact police:
- Call 101 quoting reference 5382/12Oct
- Submit via the Major Incident Public Portal
- Or provide details anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111
Visit the Major Incident Public Portal (link provided by authorities)