Croydon: Two charged with murder of Sarah Mayhew

Two people have been charged with murder after the human remains of a 38-year-old woman were found in a park in south London.

Police were called to Rowdown Fields in Croydon on Tuesday morning (April 2), where they discovered the remains of Sarah Mayhew.

Gemma Saundercock, 48, of Holmbury Grove, Croydon and Steve Samson, 44, of Burnell Road, Sutton were arrested on Saturday April 6 on suspicion of murder. 

The pair will appear in custody at Bromley Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday April 9, charged with Ms Mayhew’s murder and the prevention of the lawful and decent burial of a body.

Samson has also been charged with three counts of making indecent images of a child. Scotland Yards says these charges are unconnected with the murder investigation at this stage.

Ms Mayhew’s family have been informed and are currently being supported by specially trained family liaison officers.

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Commander Andy Brittain, who leads policing in Croydon, said: “I would like to thank the detectives and officers across the Met whose expertise continues to enable this speedy and thorough investigation.

“The local community has also offered much support during this time, as officers carried out this vital work, and we are very appreciative of their efforts.

“My sincere condolences are with Sarah’s family, and we will continue to support them as the investigation progresses.”

Anyone with information that may assist the investigation who has yet to speak with police is asked to call 101, quoting reference 1656/02Apr.