The Metropolitan Police’s Specialist Crime Command (Homicide) is investigating after four people were tragically murdered in Southwark, South East London. The victims have now been officially identified as police launch a renewed appeal for witnesses to assist the inquiry.
The victims are Denton Burke, 58, and his partner Dolet Hill, 64, who lived together on Delaford Road, Southwark. Also among the deceased are Tanysha (also known as Rachquel) Ofori-Akuffo, 45, who is Dolet Hill’s daughter and lived in Kennington, SE17, and Samantha Drummonds, 27, Tanysha’s daughter, from Forest Hill, Lewisham, SE23. Specialist officers are providing support to the grieving families as the investigation continues.
Detective Chief Inspector Linda Bradley, leading the investigation, described the scene as “truly horrific.” She said, “I fully recognise the distress for the family and community will be overwhelming. We’re conducting a thorough investigation and urge anyone with information to come forward. If you know or saw anything that can help piece together these events, please contact police or Crimestoppers anonymously.” She also thanked the community for their patience and assured that every detail will be uncovered, despite the investigation taking time.
The incident occurred in the early hours of Monday, April 25, at 1.42am when police responded to a disturbance on Delaford Road, SE16. Officers forced entry after receiving no response at the door. Inside the property, they found four people — three women and one man — who appeared to have been stabbed. Despite emergency medical efforts, all four were pronounced dead at the scene.
Police also encountered a 28-year-old man from Lewisham inside the property. He was detained using a Taser and arrested on suspicion of murder. The suspect remains in hospital in stable condition under arrest.
Post-mortem examinations were scheduled for April 26 and 27, with formal identification expected shortly thereafter. Authorities continue to appeal for witnesses or anyone with information to contact police on 101 or via Twitter @MetCC quoting CAD 406/25APR. Information can also be provided anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Originally published by UKNIP.
