In a housing block that was described as a very quiet place, and where problems almost never exist, was where the body of missing police officer PC Gordon Semple was discovered. The 49-year-old suspect was arrested at the same place.
Scotland Yard was alerted when a neighbour reported a “smell of death” that was coming from a property in Southwark, south London. They discovered the dismembered and decomposing remains of the police officer when they responded to the scene.
Martin Harris, whose brother lives in the same block where PC Semple’s remains were found, alerted the police when a foul smell emanated from one of the flats. He confronted the person living in the property, but was told that the stench came from his cooking.
The man was only wearing Speedos and a pair of glasses when he answered the door. Harris also said the man placed scented candles outside the door to disguise the smell.
Area Commander of Westminster Alison Newcomb read a statement that it will take time to determine the cause of and establish formal identification because of the condition of the human remains.
It has been several days since PC Semple left his home in April 1 to go to Westminster, but failed to return home. He was later reported missing by his partner Gary Meeks.
He was last seen on 1 April at 3pm on a CCTV at Great Guildford Street. He left the Shangri-La hotel, where he attended an on-duty meeting, around 12:30pm. Authorities have been trying to establish his whereabouts between 12:30pm and 3pm, but the investigation is now focused on Peabody estate where his body was found.
In a post on a Facebook appeal page, PC Semple’s brother, Ronnie, said that the world is now a worse place with the loss of the beloved police officer. He also extended his gratitude to everyone who showed their support.