‘Devastated’ family appeal for information 18 months after man assaulted in Croydon dies

The family of a man who died after being assaulted in Croydon almost 18 months ago have appealed for witnesses and information.

At around 1:30am on Wednesday, July 1, 2020, Simon Whisker had been sitting drinking with a friend in London Road, Croydon when he became involved in a fight with a group of four men.

Simon was attacked by the men who left him injured, lying in the street.

An ambulance was called and Simon was taken to hospital but left following treatment.

He died around two weeks later on Monday, July 13, 2020.

Simon’s family are hoping someone from the public will come forward with information.

Simon’s father, Derek Whisker, said: “My family are devastated by Simon’s death and we are finding it very hard to deal with the situation. My wife is very unwell in a care home.

“I am Simon’s father and I am trying to stay strong for my family’s wellbeing. I’m finding things very hard to deal with. If you recognise the suspects on CCTV please speak to the police.”

Despite previous appeals the suspects have never been identified.

Detective Constable Jo Cheung, from the South Area Command Unit is investigating and said: “Being the victim of a violent crime is devastating and there is no way to determine how a person will react in that situation.

“Simon’s reaction was a need to draw a line under it and put it behind him. Whether he would have lived if he had continued medical treatment we will never know, but we do know that those who launched the vicious attack on him must be brought to account for their part in the last weeks of his life.

“Today I am re-issuing the images of four men that I would like to identify in connection with this case and hope that someone who may not have felt they could come forward last year, may now feel able to give us the information that we need.

“If you know the identity of any of the men shown please do the right thing, not just for Simon, but for his grieving family and to make your own streets safer.”

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101 quoting reference 471/01Jul20. Alternatively tweet @MetCC or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Pictured top: CCTV of four young men