Police are hunting a killer after a popular 39-year-old man was found dead with serious head injuries inside a flat.
Thomas Carey, known to friends as Tommy, was discovered after firefighters were called to force their way into the property in Lambeth, south London.
Emergency crews desperately tried to save him but he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Police have now launched a murder investigation.
No arrests have yet been made.
Heartbroken friends and neighbours have paid tribute to Tommy, who was a popular regular at his local pub, as reported by Need To Know.
Staff at The Hope, one of his favourite haunts, described him as a “cheeky chap” who always had a smile on his face.
They said: “Tommy was a big kid at heart, with an even bigger heart.
“A lovable character who will be hugely missed by everyone who knew him.
“Every morning, he was one of the first in – a coffee, a BuzzBall and a chat.
“You genuinely couldn’t say a bad word about Tommy.
“He was loved by so many.”
The pub said staff were “absolutely gutted”, adding: “Our mornings will never be the same without you.”
Neighbours also remembered Tommy as a friendly man, with one saying he “wouldn’t hurt a fly”.
Emergency services were called to the property in Poynders Road at around 8:35pm on Friday (4 Sep).
The London Fire Brigade was initially called to gain entry to the flat before firefighters discovered Tommy inside.
Police and paramedics raced to the scene but he could not be saved.
His next of kin are being supported by specialist officers.
Detectives are now appealing for anyone who saw or heard anything suspicious to come forward.
They are also seeking CCTV, doorbell or dashcam footage that could help piece together Tommy’s final movements.
Detective Chief Inspector Alison Foxwell, who is leading the murder investigation, said: “Our thoughts remain with Thomas’s family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.
“We continue to appeal for information and urge anyone who may have seen or heard anything unusual to contact police.
“Any information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, could prove vital to our investigation.”
Enquiries continue.
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