Murder investigation opens in Beckenham after woman found dead in house

Police have begun a murder investigation after a woman was found dead in a house in Beckenham on Thursday night.

Formal identification has not taken place but officers are confident that the victim is 61-year-old Diane Dyer.

Emergency services were called just after 11pm to a house in Oakwood Avenue, Beckenham, following concerns for a female occupant and found a woman who was unresponsive suffering from head injuries.

A post-mortem is due to take place on Friday July 19.

Detective Chief Inspector Mark Cranwell, who is leading the investigation, said: “This is a tragic incident and we are supporting Diane’s family at this difficult time. I would like to reassure the community that this is thought to be an isolated incident and we believe Diane knew her attacker. My officers are working around the clock to apprehend the person responsible, however we also need the public’s help.

“Did you see or hear anything suspicious on the evening of Thursday, 18 July in the Oakwood Avenue area? If so, we need to hear from you. Please contact the incident room as soon as possible or call Crimestoppers anonymously.”

No arrests have been made. Enquiries continue.

Anyone with information is asked to call the incident room number on 020 8721 4054 or police on 101 quoting CAD 9363/18JUL. Information can also be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or by visiting crimestoppers-uk.org.