Two people have been charged with murder after human remains were found in a park in Croydon last week.
The remains of Sarah Mayhew were discovered last Tuesday, April 2, with the victim named yesterday.
An investigation was launched following a call to the police shortly after 9am last Tuesday, to reports of possible human remains found on Rowdown Fields.
Gemma Saundercock, 48, of Holmbury Grove, Croydon, and Steve Samson, 45, of Burnell Road, Sutton were arrested on Saturday following a police investigation.
The remains of Sarah Mayhew were found on Rowdown Fields last Tuesday
Met Police/Google Maps
They will appear in custody at Bromley Magistrates’ Court later today, charged with murder and the prevention of the lawful and decent burial of a body.
Samson has also been charged with three counts of making indecent images of a child.
These charges are unconnected with the murder investigation at this stage.
Mayhew's family have been informed of the charges and officers remain in close contact as they support them.
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Sarah Mayhew was named as the victim yesterday
Met Police
Chief Superintendent Andy Brittain, who leads policing in Croydon, said: “I would like to thank the detectives and officers across the Met whose expertise continues to enable this speedy and thorough investigation.
“The local community has also offered much support during this time, as officers carried out this vital work, and we are very appreciative of their efforts.
“My sincere condolences are with Sarah’s family, and we will continue to support them as the investigation progresses.”
Following the naming of the victim, Detective Inspector Martin Thorpe, who is leading the investigation, said: "My thoughts are with Sarah’s family as they deal with this heartbreaking news.
"No family should have to lose a loved one in such tragic circumstances, and we will continue to provide our support as our investigation progresses.
"The two people in custody were known to Sarah and at present we are not looking for anyone else in connection with her death."
Local resident Becky Phillips described the discovery as "awful".
Another local, Deb Watts, told the Daily Mail: "This is so sad, thoughts are with the family."