An 87-year-old “Irishman” who died after being robbed near a north London playground “would have done anything for anyone”, his neighbour has said.
The Metropolitan Police said officers were called to reports of a robbery on Goodchild Road in the Manor House area at around 5.53pm on Tuesday.
London Ambulance Service also attended the scene and an elderly man was taken to hospital with serious injuries.
Police confirmed the man died on Thursday and his family had been informed.
The 59-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of murder, robbery, racially motivated disorderly conduct and assault on police.
Locals named the victim John.
Neighbour Sandra Murphy, 65, described him as a “wonderful, kind man”.
She added: “He was a wonderful old Irishman who was always willing to help others.
“He worked as an engineer and was busy every day, going outside and gardening with his brother.”
Ms Murphy also said she planned to bring flowers in memory of John.
She noted: “He was very careful about his appearance, wearing a felt hat and a suit every day.
“People said he was attacked because he had a briefcase.
“I said, 'He never had a briefcase.' He had a little bag for his anorak and umbrella.”
Paying tribute to her neighbour, Ms Murphy said: “Even today I texted one of his old neighbours. She remembered how he used to help her with her garden when they lived in the old flats.
“Everyone here loved him very much. No one could say anything bad about John.”
A police cordon remained in place just metres from the Spring Park playground and Redmond Community Centre in Woodberry Down until Friday morning.
Local resident Erzsebet Thomas, 60, expressed her feelings: she was “terrified” to learn of the man’s death.
The hotel worker added: “I am now very afraid to come back here after what happened.
“This is so terrible.”
Another local resident, who wished to remain anonymous, said he heard John was robbed “after he visited an ATM.”
Detective Chief Inspector Mark Rogers, who is leading the investigation for the police's North London Specialist Crime Unit, said: “This is a terrible incident which has sadly resulted in the death of an innocent man.
“The family received support from support services.
“We are not currently seeking any other suspects in connection with this incident. However, investigations are ongoing and I would appeal to anyone who may have been in the area or who may have witnessed it to contact police.”
Assistant Chief Superintendent Brittany Clarke, who leads the local police force, said: “We understand that many people will be very concerned about what has happened and while we have the suspect in custody, local patrols have been stepped up.
“If you have any concerns please do not hesitate to contact these officers. This man has died tragically and our thoughts are with his family.”
Sourse: breakingnews.ie
