The family of a “defenceless” grandfather who was brutally battered to death in his west London home have appealed for justice as a £20,000 reward is offered.
John Murray, 75, was hit around the head at the property in Carlton Road, Chiswick, on Sunday, October 12 last year.
Despite the best efforts of emergency services who tried to save his life, he died at the scene.
Nine months on, officers leading a murder investigation urged potential witnesses to share any information that could prove pivotal in the arrest, charge and prosecution of those responsible.
Detectives are also asking those in the surrounding area to check CCTV, dashcam or doorbell footage.
In a heartbreaking statement, Mr Murray’s loved ones said: “As a family, we are still struggling to understand why someone would harm a defenceless 75-year-old man in his own home.
“We cannot move on with our lives until we have some answers.
“To anyone with information, please come forward and help the police get justice for our family.”
Neighbours who supported the appeal added: “This is a close-knit community.
“All of us are reeling from the shock of finding out that John had been murdered.
“He was a lovely man, a good friend and neighbour who had been at the centre of the community for years.
“None of us can understand why anyone would do this to him. We hope this appeal will lead to justice for John.”
The independent charity Crimestoppers is offering a reward for information that leads to the identification and prosecution of those responsible.
Detective Chief Inspector Brian Howie, who is leading the Metropolitan Police’s investigation, said: “John was a father, grandfather, and a well-liked neighbour, who was brutally murdered in his own home.
“We are making progress in our investigation, but we need the public’s help to get John, his family and friends the justice they deserve.
“Did you see or hear anything unusual around Carlton Road, such as any signs of a struggle or an argument?
“If you knew John, did you notice a change in him in the weeks leading up to his death?”
Anyone with any information is urged to call police via 101, quoting reference 5382/12Oct or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
