Appeal to identify Lewisham man who died 13 years ago

At 9.39pm on Thursday April 1, 2010, the man was discovered on the street and was rushed to hospital where he was pronounced dead. 

Despite his distinctive tattoos, investigators were never able to confirm the identity of ‘Lewisham man’ and it is still not know today. 

Now volunteer investigators from cold case charity Locate International have created a new depiction of how the man looked at the time of his death – and they believe this man be the key to reuniting the man with his identity. 

Do your recognise this man? (Image: Locate International/Hew Morrison)

Lewisham man is believed to have been of South-East Asian origin and aged between 40 and 50 at the time of his death. 

He has several tattoos including: 

• A square design with three rising pinnacles (upper right arm) 
• A circle design with five rising pinnacles (upper left arm) 
• A dog-like animal with arrow/spear shape (front right thigh) 
• A woman/mermaid design (left front thigh) 

Lewisham man had these distinctive tattoos (Image: Locate International)

These tattoos are in the ‘Sak Yant’ style and were produced using the bamboo-poked style that Buddhist monks practice in South-East Asia. 

Hew Morrison, a forensic artist looking into Lewisham man’s death, said: “After creating the image, I did extensive research into the meaning of these tattoos, including asking numerous tattoo artists here in Thailand and also an author on the subject, but unfortunately to no avail. 

“The symbolism used in these types of tattoos relate directly to the Buddhist faith and there are literally hundreds, if not thousands, of these types of designs out there.” 

The man was also found with an Oyster card, four unknown medicinal tablets and a mobile phone. 

Investigators suggest that the phone indicates he was established in the area, rather than a short-term visitor. 

They are hoping that members of the public might be able to identify the mystery man. 

Mr Morrison said: “For me, as a person who works in human identification, I believe that it is imperative that nobody should remain unidentified, no matter how much time has gone by since their passing. There is, of course, the family and friends of that person to take into consideration, as every day that passes will be a painful reminder to them of that person's absence.” 

Dave Grimstead, Locate International’s CEO and co-founder, said: “We understand if there is any reluctance to come forward with information in this case, but you can contact us confidentially, and there is no need for you to give us any personal information. 

“If you think you recognise him in any way, or if any of the tattoos sound familiar, then please contact us: even the smallest piece of information can help our investigation.” 

If you have any information, please contact Locate International by emailing appeals@locate.international, by calling 0300 102 1011 or by visiting this site.