Appeals issued on two-year anniversary of Herne Hill’s unsolved double fatality

Police investigating the deaths of two men in Herne Hill are appealing for witnesses to come forward.

Two years ago, on Sunday, October 30, 2022, 23-year-old Guilherme Messias Da Silva and 27-year-old Lemar Urqhart died in Railton Road, Brixton.

Police were called at around 7.50pm that day to reports of gunshots heard in the Railton Road area.

Officers, including firearms officers, immediately attended the scene along with London Ambulance Service and London’s Air Ambulance.

Despite the efforts of emergency services, both Guilherme and Lemar were pronounced dead at the scene.

Detectives believe two cars were driving in the Railton Road area when one was in collision with Guilherme’s moped, before further colliding with parked vehicles.

Lemar then got out of one of the cars involved in the collision and was pursued by a man, armed with a firearm. The man shot Lemar and returned to his car before leaving the scene.

Lemar Urqhart’s family said: “Two years since our son, grandson, brother, nephew, cousin and friend was tragically taken from us. Whoever said time is a healer, lied. The pain is unbearable and life will never be the same.

“Lemar was an integral part of the family and his death has rocked our family to the core. Every day we hope that new information is given to aid the arrest of the person/s who did this.

“We plead with anyone who has information to please come forward. Any information could be vital. Our family would be forever grateful to anyone who could help.”

Detective Chief Inspector Samantha Townsend, leading the investigation, said: “It has been two years since this shocking incident and our thoughts continue to remain with the family and friends of Guilherme and Lemar.

“My team is working to identify those responsible for their deaths and to get justice for the families. I am extremely grateful to those individuals who have already come forward to share information, but would urge anyone else who has information and has not yet spoken to us to come forward. No piece of information is too small.”

Any witnesses or anyone with information should call police via 101 quoting CAD 6166/30Oct. Alternatively, speak to independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org. They will not trace your call or your IP address.

Information can also be submitted via the Public Portal

Pictured top: Guilherme Messias Da Silva (Picture: The Met)