A man appeared in court yesterday charged with murdering a successful gay property developer, who liked to have large amounts of cash available for his various business ventures.
William John Saunderson-Smith, 58 - known to friends as ‘John’ – had been beaten around the head with a blunt object when found dead on October 21 at his home in Dewhurst Road, West Kensington.
Forensic officers who searched two addresses used by Mr. Saunderson-Smith (pictured) in Dewhurst Road and Sedlescombe Road, Fulham seized approximately £150,000 cash found in several plastic bags.
An incident room was opened at Hendon under Detective Chief Inspector Howard Groves who said: “At present details regarding Mr Saunderson-Smith's life, and the events leading up to his death, remain sketchy.
“Whilst local enquiries are ongoing, we are now extending our appeals to anyone who knew Mr Saunderson-Smith from his frequent visits to gay clubs in and around the Old Brompton Road and Kennington areas.
“This could be crucial in assisting us to build a complete picture about his life.
“I must stress that we are not treating this as a homophobic crime, however we are keeping an open mind as to the reasons behind his murder.
“We understand that Mr Saunderson-Smith had a number of people in his life though business and leisure interests. I am urging anyone who knew him to contact us.”
Anyone with any information is urged to contact the incident room on 020 8247 7821. If you wish to remain anonymous call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Polish national Slawomir Bugajewski, 38, a builder of Braid Avenue, Acton appeared in custody at Ealing Magistrates’ Court.
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