A man has been charged over the death of a woman described as 'lovely and friendly' in southeast London. Barbara McCann, 47, was discovered deceased in her flat on Catford Hill on June 9, having lived there for only about a week.
Neighbour's Account
A neighbour told Metro that Ms McCann had recently moved into the former police station turned apartment block after being in emergency accommodation. 'She seemed a perfectly lovely, friendly lady,' the neighbour said. Concerns arose when a strong odour emanated from her flat. 'There was a terrible smell. The building manager went in to check, and they found the body. It must have been there for a few days,' the neighbour added. 'We are all devastated that this has happened and our hearts go out to her family. She lived alone as far as I could see.'
Police Investigation
The neighbour noted that 'forensics and detectives were all over the flats' after the discovery. 'It's all ironic, given that this used to be a police station,' she remarked. A mother-of-four living opposite the block said, 'There were so many police on the scene and forensics coming out with evidence. It leaves me cold to think what happened just yards from my place. Detectives have been trawling through CCTV and carrying out door-to-door inquiries.'
Police responded to welfare concerns at 11:35 am on June 9. Ms McCann was pronounced dead at the scene, and her family is receiving support from specialist officers.
Arrest and Charge
Derek Bradshaw, 32, was arrested in Hillingdon, west London, in connection with Ms McCann's death. He has been charged with murder and appeared in court on Tuesday, June 16. Detective Chief Inspector Mark Franklin, leading the investigation, said: 'Our thoughts remain with Barbara's family at this unimaginably difficult time. If you have any information about Barbara's death, no matter how small, please assist our investigation by contacting us as a matter of urgency.'
