Scotland Yard detectives have launched a renewed public appeal for information, releasing a new e-fit image of a mystery man they are desperate to identify in connection with the brutal murder of a father-of-five over two decades ago.
Nicholas Robinson, a 37-year-old carpenter, was discovered with fatal head injuries in the street on Kenworthy Road, Hackney, East London, on the evening of November 28th, 1999. Despite a comprehensive investigation, his killer has never been brought to justice.
Now, over 25 years later, the Met's Specialist Crime Command is focusing on a key individual seen in the area that night. The man, described as Black and in his mid-20s at the time, was witnessed speaking with Mr. Robinson shortly before the attack. Police believe he is a crucial witness who may hold the final pieces of the puzzle.
A Family's Agonising Wait for Answers
Mr. Robinson's family has endured a quarter-century of anguish without closure. In a heartfelt statement, they described Nicholas as a "loving son, brother, father and uncle" whose life was tragically cut short, leaving a void that has never been filled.
"We have never had answers as to what happened that night and why," the family said. "We urge anyone with information to look into their conscience and come forward. Please help us finally get the justice for Nicholas that we have waited so long for."
The New E-Fit and the Night of the Murder
The updated e-fit depicts the man as he would have looked in 1999. He was described as having a medium build and short black hair, wearing a dark-coloured jacket, dark trousers, and dark shoes.
Detective Chief Inspector Mark Rogers, leading the investigation, emphasised the importance of this individual. "We know this man was in the area and had some form of interaction with Nicholas around the time of the murder," he stated. "We do not believe he was responsible... however, we are convinced he has information which is vital to our investigation."
DCI Rogers made a direct appeal to the man himself, acknowledging that he may not have come forward at the time for personal reasons but assuring him that it is not too late to do the right thing.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the incident room on 020 8345 1575, call 101, or reach out anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
