10 Years On, Family of Mistaken Identity Murder Victim Plead for Justice
The family of Ricardo Cunha, shot dead in his own home in a tragic case of mistaken identity, have made a heart-wrenching appeal for information on the 10th anniversary of his murder.
Ricardo Shot at Home in West Norwood
Ricardo, just 23 at the time, was killed on the night of Saturday, 11 September 2010. He and his girlfriend were watching TV in their flat in Pondfield House, Elder Road, SE27, when a knock at the front door interrupted their evening.
Ricardo went to investigate and looked out the front bedroom window – that’s when the killer struck, shooting him in the head. Despite emergency services rushing to the scene, Ricardo died within half an hour.
Murder Weapon: A Rare 1924 Webley Revolver
Police believe the killing was a mistake and Ricardo was never the intended target. Detectives have linked a distinctive 1924 Webley Mark Six revolver to the murder, released in 2011 as part of their appeal.
The same gun was fired just three days later in a separate incident on the Clapham Park Estate, Brixton. Though no one was hurt then, forensics confirmed that weapon matched the fatal shot that ended Ricardo’s life.
Family’s Emotional Plea and £30,000 Reward
Ricardo’s mother Maria and sister Liliana have urged anyone with information to come forward, hoping the £30,000 reward triggers new leads. Maria said:
“Ten years have passed since we lost our boy. We still don’t know why his life was taken so cruelly. Nothing will bring Ricardo back, but I want whoever did this to pay for it.
“Ricardo was kind, helpful, and respectful. He had his whole life ahead – stolen in an instant. We cry every day without him. Please, anyone who knows anything, help us find closure.”
Police Renew Call for Justice
Detective Sergeant Matt Flynn of the Met’s Specialist Crime Command said:
“Ricardo’s family has suffered unimaginable loss. For ten years, they’ve hoped the killer would be revealed. Systems to report crime safely have improved – people can contact Crimestoppers anonymously, no names or IP addresses required.
“I believe someone knows who fired that fatal shot. Time can change loyalties, so I urge anyone with info to come forward now. Your tip, no matter how small, will be treated in strict confidence.”
If you have information about Ricardo Cunha’s murder, contact the incident room on 0208 721 4005.
