Detectives from the Metropolitan Police’s Specialist Crime Command have launched a murder investigation after the disappearance of Justin Henry. The family of Mr. Henry has been informed of the change in the nature of the investigation and is receiving support from specialist officers.
Detective Chief Inspector Matt Wood, leading the investigation, expressed his sadness as he informed Mr. Henry’s family about the murder investigation. He acknowledged the devastating impact this news would have on the loved ones of the missing individual. While they continue to hope and pray for his safe return, the absence of any evidence indicating Mr. Henry is alive, along with the circumstances surrounding his disappearance, suggests he may have come to serious harm and could have been murdered.
In light of this development, the police are appealing to the public for assistance. Detective Chief Inspector Wood pleaded with people to consider the anguish Mr. Henry’s family is experiencing and to come forward with any information that could be relevant to the case. He emphasised that even seemingly insignificant details could be crucial in solving the mystery and bringing closure to the family.
Justin Henry, 34 years old, was reported missing on October 16th, with his family stating that his absence is completely out of character. He was last seen in person on the evening of October 15th at his partner’s address in Brixton, with links to the SE23 area.
Investigations have revealed that on the evening of October 15th, Justin was captured on CCTV footage at a McDonald’s drive-thru restaurant on London Road in Croydon, purchasing food at 21:50. Afterward, he drove to Waddon New Road, where his silver Mercedes E Class vehicle remained for approximately two-and-a-half hours. The vehicle was later found in Kingswood Drive, SE19, in the early hours of October 18. It remains unclear who was driving the car at that time due to the indistinct CCTV image, but Justin’s family confirms that he was not the driver.
On October 18, a 27-year-old woman was arrested in connection with the investigation on suspicion of kidnapping. She has since been released on bail until mid-January 2024.
Detectives have conducted forensic examinations of an address in Croydon and Justin’s car, as well as extensive investigations into CCTV footage and phone records. However, they are urging anyone with information about Justin’s disappearance or any details about his activities leading up to his disappearance to contact the police.
Witnesses or individuals with information are encouraged to call the police on 101 or reach out via Twitter/X @MetCC, quoting Operation Ashgulf or CAD 5224/21Oct. Those who wish to provide anonymous information can contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.