Sakunthala Francis: Croydon man charged with murder of his grandmother

A Croydon man has been charged with the murder of his 89-year-old grandmother.

Police were called by the London Ambulance Service at around 9.20pm on Tuesday, June 21, to a woman suffering stab injuries at a residential address in Brigstock Road, Thornton Heath.

She has been named as 89-year-old Sakunthala Francis, and was pronounced dead at the scene.

Her family have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers.

Verushan Manoharan, 31, of Kingsley Road, Croydon was charged on Wednesday, June 22.

Manoharan and the deceased are grandmother and grandson.

He is due to appear in custody on Thursday, June 23, at Croydon Magistrates’ Court.

Enquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances of the incident, but at this stage, nobody else is sought in connection with the death.

Police are asking for anyone with information that may assist the investigation to call 101, ref 7790/21jun.

To remain anonymous, contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.