Epsom News
UPDATE: Murdered man made contact with police in months before death
5:50pm Tuesday 21st February 2012
A man who was murdered in his own home had been in contact with Surrey Police on ‘several’ occasions in the months before his death it has emerged.
Winston Fernandez, 69, was found at his home in Longdown Lane North, Ewell on the morning of Monday, February 13, where his body had been lying for at least a week.
In a statement released this afternoon Surrey Police said: "Surrey Police strives to uphold the highest professional standards in its work. Since there were several contacts with Mr Fernandez in early 2012, Surrey Police referred this matter to the Independent Police Complaints Commission to investigate whether we acted in a proper and professional manner in dealing with him. Having considered the circumstances, the IPCC has referred the matter back to Surrey Police for investigation."
It is believed Mr Fernandez, who lived alone, may have known his killer as there was no sign of forced entry to the property and that he may even have invited him in.
A post mortem examination confirmed Mr Fernandez had died of ‘multiple injuries’ to his chest, neck and abdomen which were consistent with ‘no weapon’ being used suggesting he was killed with bare hands.
Detective Superintendent John Boshier said: "We are currently following a number of lines of enquiry and are trying to build up a picture of Mr Fernandez’s lifestyle which could prove crucial to helping solve this murder.Although he lived alone he was known in the local area and we are anxious to hear from anyone who may have seen him or knows of his recent movements.We have been carrying out house-house enquiries in the area and have been speaking with local people to address any concerns they may have.I would like to reassure the community that at this stage we believe this to be an isolated incident and we are doing all we can to bring those responsible to justice."
Anyone with information should call Surrey Police on 101 quoting reference EP/12/602.