Family in 'shock' after fatal Chiswick assault

John Murray was found unconscious at his home in Chiswick in October

A family has described their "complete shock" after a 75-year-old man was found dead at his home in west London.

The Metropolitan Police were called on 12 October by the London Ambulance Service to an unconscious man at a residential address in Carlton Road, Chiswick. He was pronounced dead at the scene and later identified as John Murray.

In a statement his family said Mr Murray was a dad and granddad, adding: "John had so much more life to live."

A murder investigation was launched after the cause of death - a fatal head injury - was confirmed to have been caused by an assault.

His family added: "We are struggling to comprehend why someone would harm a 75-year-old defenceless man in his own home."

Police said Mr Murray had moved to Chiswick after retiring and was a well-liked neighbour who always offered to help others in the community.

He was often seen riding his motorbike in the communal gardens which is where neighbours last saw him on the day he died.

Det Ch Insp Brian Howie from the Met's Specialist Crime Command, which is leading the investigation, said: "As part of our investigation, we need the public's help to piece together what exactly took place.

"Every piece of information, no matter how small, could be crucial.

"If you were in the Chiswick area, especially near Carlton Road on Saturday, 12 October, you may be able to assist our investigation."