A murder charge has been brought against a man in connection with the discovery of a missing person’s body in an abandoned building, as stated by law enforcement officials.
The missing individual, Junior Ryan Coleman, was first reported missing on August 20. His remains were located by authorities on September 19 at a site on Brockley Road in Lewisham during a search related to a missing person inquiry conducted by the Metropolitan Police.
Following a post-mortem examination that indicated Mr. Coleman had succumbed to head injuries caused by blunt force trauma, a murder investigation was initiated on September 20, according to the police.
Daniel Watkis, aged 39 and residing on Glenarm Road in Hackney, was taken into custody on Thursday and formally charged on Friday. He was subsequently detained at Bromley Magistrates’ Court. Watkis is scheduled to appear at the Old Bailey on October 24. The family of Mr. Coleman is receiving support from specialized officers.
Detective Chief Inspector Sam Townsend, who is overseeing the inquiry, expressed sympathy for Junior’s loved ones and friends during this challenging period. He emphasized that the investigative team is diligently working to ascertain the circumstances surrounding Junior’s disappearance and subsequent death.
Appealing to individuals who were acquainted with Junior, especially those who may have encountered him during the summer months, the detective urged anyone possessing relevant information to come forward. Even the smallest details could prove vital to the investigation, he emphasized.
Authorities have urged anyone with knowledge pertaining to the case to reach out by calling 101 or providing information online quoting CAD 1574/19SEP. Alternatively, individuals can contact the incident room at 020 8721 4961. Those wishing to remain anonymous can reach out to Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.
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