A has paid tribute to a “sweet and cheeky” client who died from head injuries, prompting a murder investigation. Thomas “Tommy” Carey, 39, was found with serious head injuries at a house in Poynders Road, Brixton Hill, on September 4.
A “big baby at heart” died minutes before emergency services arrived at the scene in South London. Tributes were posted on The Hope Pub West Norwood Facebook page, which described Tommy as a “great customer” and a “cheeky guy with a smile on his face.”
It said he was a frequent visitor, often one of the first to arrive. Staff said Tommy will always be in their memory and that his “second home” will “never be the same.”
The sincere congratulations read: “One of our favorite clients, Tommy. He is known to many people in the area as a cheeky guy who always has a smile on his face. Tommy was a big kid at heart, but with an even bigger heart.
“A lovable character who will be greatly missed by all who knew him. He was one of the first to arrive every morning for coffee, BuzzBall, and conversation with me and everyone who knew and loved him.
“You really couldn’t say a bad word about Tommy. He was loved by many. We are shocked, completely upset, and it is so difficult for us to understand. WHY? ? Sleep well, our beloved Tommy. Our mornings will never be the same without you.
“You will always be a part of Hope – your second home – and we will make sure you are never forgotten. If anyone who knew Tommy thinks they may have any information that could help, no matter how small or insignificant it may seem, call the Metropolitan Police on 101 and quote CAD reference CAD7021/04SEP26.
“Any information would be helpful and could help us get justice for our Tommy. Fly high, Tommy. You will be missed more than you will ever know that you didn’t really realize how loved you were, my dear. Thomas John Carey.”
On Tuesday, September 8, police detained two men aged about 30 on suspicion of murder. In addition, a woman in her 30s was arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit murder.
On Thursday, September 10, Leroy Heffron, 38, of Sangley Road, Catford, was formally charged with murder and remanded in custody. The second man has been released on bail pending further inquiries, while the woman remains in police custody.