Police Open Murder Inquiry into Chiswick Man's Death
Information sought about the assault which killed John Murray
John Murray was well liked by his neighbours. Picture: Met Police
June 19, 2025
The police have launched a murder investigation into the death of a man in Chiswick last October.
The initial post mortem on 75-year-old John Murray indicated that he died of a head injury and not necessarily foul play but a later pathology result found the injury had been caused by an assault. Three police forensics van were observed near the scene of his death this Thursday (18 June).
At around 3:30pm on Saturday, 12 October last year he was found unconscious by a neighbour on the second-floor balcony of his flat at 81 Carlton Road near the junction with Southfield Road. Despite the best efforts of emergency service workers to save his life, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Mr Murray was a father and grandfather, who moved to Chiswick on his retirement and was well liked by his neighbours. Those who knew him said he was always offering to help others in the community. He was often seen riding his motorbike or in the communal gardens, which is where neighbours last saw him on the day of his death.
Detectives are keen to hear from anyone who knew Mr Murray, such as close friends or others who came in to contact with him on a regular basis. In particular, they need to trace those who either spoke with him or saw him in the hours leading up to his death.
In a statement, John Murray’s family said, “As a family, we are devastated and in complete shock to learn that our Dad and Grandad was murdered. John had so much more life to live. We are struggling to comprehend why someone would harm a 75-year-old defenceless man in his own home. We are appealing for anyone with information to please come forward and help the police get justice for our family.”
Forensics team on Carlton Road this Thursday. Picture: ChiswickW4.com
Detective Chief Inspector Brian Howie from the Met’s Specialist Crime Command, which is leading the investigation, said, “My thoughts are very much with John’s family and the community at this tragic time.
“As part of our investigation, we need the public’s help to piece together what exactly took place.
“Every piece of information, no matter how small, could be crucial. If you were in the Chiswick area, especially near Carlton Road on Saturday, 12 October, you may be able to assist our investigation.
“Did you see or hear anything unusual around Carlton Road, for instance, any signs of a struggle or an argument? Do you have any CCTV, dashcam or doorbell footage from the surrounding areas at the time of the incident?
“You may simply know John, or visited him at his flat. You may have spoken to him or noticed a change in him in the weeks leading up to his death.
“Anyone with any information is urged to call police on 101 providing the reference 5382/12Oct, or by visiting the Major Incident Public Portal Website.
“Information can also be provided to Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.”
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