'Complex and reclusive' John Saunderson-Smith killed by a blow to the head

The man murdered in his Brook Green home last Friday (21st October) has been named as William John Saunderson-Smith.

Mr. Saunderson-Smith, 58, a property developer of Dewhurst Road, W14. Mr Saunderson-Smith was commonly known as 'John'.

A post-mortem examination gave the cause of death as a head injury caused by blunt trauma.

An investigation, which is being led by Detective Chief Inspector Howard Groves, Homicide and Serious Crime Command, is underway.

DCI Groves, said: "It is believed that Mr Saunderson-Smith was attacked inside his home between 19:00hrs on Thursday 20 October and some time the following morning.

"I am eager to speak to anyone who may have seen or heard anything suspicious in or near Dewhurst Road during that time. It has become apparent from our enquiries that Mr Saunderson-Smith had been living a complex and reclusive life for some time, and as such I am keen to speak to anyone who knew him and may assist us in building a picture about his life."

Anyone with any information is urged to contact the incident room on 020 8247 7821; or, if you wish to remain anonymous, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

There has been no arrest at this time and no weapon has been recovered. Enquiries continue to trace the next of kin.

An inquest is scheduled to open and adjourn at Fulham Coroners Court later on today.

October 27, 2011