Met Police Launch Appeal Over Death of Derrick Jones
A £20,000 reward has been offered for information about the murder of Derrick Jones, whose body was discovered wrapped in a sheet on a pavement in Ilford, east London.
The 56-year-old was found at around 4:41am on 23 July on Walton Road, after a member of the public alerted police. Despite extensive inquiries, the Metropolitan Police say they have been unable to confirm how he died.
A forensic examination revealed Derrick had sustained “some injuries,” but detectives say the exact cause of death remains unknown.
Victim Was Socialising Before His Death
Investigators believe Derrick had been with friends at a property in Warrior Square the day before his body was found. Officers are now working to trace those he was last seen with and anyone who may have seen suspicious activity in the area.
A statement from the Met Police said:
“Three months on from the death of 56-year-old Derrick Jones, a significant Crimestoppers reward is being offered as detectives seek justice for his family.
A reward of up to £20,000 is on offer for information leading to the identification, arrest, and prosecution of the person or people responsible for Derrick’s murder.”
Detectives Urge Public to Come Forward
Detective Sergeant Wes Hawkins, who is leading the investigation, appealed to the public to come forward with any information no matter how small.
“Three months have passed since Derrick’s murder, and we are appealing for new information that could help our investigation,” he said.
“Walton Road is a busy street, and we believe someone out there holds a vital piece of the puzzle. Even the smallest detail could be the breakthrough we need to identify Derrick’s killer.”
He added that the £20,000 Crimestoppers reward could be the key incentive needed to bring new witnesses forward.
“Your help could be crucial in securing justice for Derrick and giving his family the answers they deserve,” he said.
How to Share Information
Anyone with information can contact the Met Police incident room on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111, quoting reference number CAD 953/23Jul.
