DETECTIVES raided a house in Wanstead on Tuesday night following the cold-blooded murder of a father in front of his partner and children.

Officers from the Barking murder squad, who are investigating the death of Alan Musgrove in Forest Gate on Friday, searched 24 Merino Close, but found it unoccupied.

They later towed away a red car which was parked outside the house and are now searching for the owner of the house to help them with their enquiries.

Confirming that the Merino Close property was searched by officers, Det Insp Martin Johnson said: "We did enter and search the house as part of the on-going investigations into the murder of Alan Musgrove. I can also confirm that a red car was taken away by the officers.

"We didn't find anyone in the house at the time and would like to trace the owner."

A Merino Close resident, who did not want to be named, said: "There must be at least 15 of them living in the raided house. They come and go from about 11pm onwards. They must have been tipped off. I can't believe there's not a single solitary one of them in there now."

Mr Musgrove was shot dead after struggling with a man who tried to force his way into his home in Tower Hamlets Road, Forest Gate.

His long-term partner, Lauren Chambers, 37, stepped in to help but a second man is thought to have shot the 39-year-old in the chest at close range. Mr Musgrove died at Newham General Hospital shortly afterwards.

Urging witnesses to come forward, Det Insp Johnson said: "The victim's family are devastated and deeply traumatised. They are being looked after by friends and family with the support of trained police liaison officers.

"We are appealing for witnesses not only from the immediate vicinity but the from adjoining areas like Wanstead as well where the suspects could have been spotted by someone at a later stage."

He added: "As for the motive behind the murder, we are keeping an open mind and looking into various possibilities including a case of burglary gone wrong, mistaken identity or a dispute with the victim."

Both men, who made their escape on foot, were described as black and wearing dark clothing. One of them was reported as tall, with a black hat rolled up on his head.

Anyone with any information should ring the incident room on 8345 3734. Alternatively, if anyone wishes to remain anonymous, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

July 11, 2002 10:00