Police investigating the murder of New Addington man, John Marzetti, say the killer's disregard for the close proximity of playing children could be the factor that eventually snares him.

Detectives piecing together the last moments of the 45-year-old father-of-two believe the gunman's indifference at the time of the shooting on October 11 may lead police straight to their man.

Senior investigating officer, Detective Inspector Mark Pleece, said: "We are still trying build up a profile of the victim to establish a motive and, although we know that may take some time, we believe the suspect's carelessness or callousness will be the thing that leads us to them.

"This happened at tea time while children were out playing in the very same spot and people were coming home from work.

"People who think they saw something suspicious, but haven't yet linked it to what happened here, are the people we want to speak to as we continue our door-to-door enquiries."

John Marzetti was shot several times while standing next to his parked car in The Coppins at 6.15pm just yards from his doorstep.

Police believe the suspect, a hooded black man wearing dark clothing and a puffa jacket, could have been waiting for his victim for some time.

Anyone with information about the shooting should call on 020 8247 8265 or Crimestoppers, free and anonymous, on 0800 555 111.

October 23, 2001 17:00