Human remains in park are 38-year-old woman, police say as two remain in custody
HUMAN remains found in a park in south London have been identified as those of 38-year-old Sarah Mayhew from Croydon.
The Metropolitan Police said a 44-year-old man and a 48-year-old woman, who were arrested on Saturday on suspicion of murder, remain in custody pending further inquiries.
Officers were called to Rowdown Fields in Croydon shortly after 9am last Tuesday after receiving reports of possible human remains being found. They sealed off the area and later found more remains in another part of the park.
Forensic experts were called in and last Wednesday, police confirmed the remains were human and a murder investigation began.
Yesterday, Det Insp Martin Thorpe, who is leading the investigation, named Mayhew as the victim.
He said: “My thoughts are with Sarah’s family as they deal with this heartbreaking news. No family should have to lose a loved one in such tragic circumstances, and we will continue to provide our support as our investigation progresses.
“The two people in custody were known to Sarah, and at present we are not looking for anyone else in connection with her death.”
The force said Mayhew’s family had been informed and were being supported by specially trained officers.
Locals previously spoke of their shock when the body was discovered.
One 80-year-old told the local news website Mylondon: “I don’t like it, it’s frightening.
“My husband is housebound and we live just opposite the park. We’ve never had any problems, it’s a lovely safe community.”
Chief Supt Andy Brittain, the lead for policing in Croydon, added: “While I hope these updates will offer some reassurance to the local community, we are aware of the understandable concern this incident has caused across New Addington.
“Your local policing teams will continue to be visible and available to discuss your concerns and answer any questions you may have as best we can.”