Halloween murder over witch hat row
Man murdered in south London after Halloween witch's hat row
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Monday, 02, Nov 2009 02:44
By Sarah Garrod
A man was murdered after he confronted a gang who stole his girlfriend's witch's hat after a Halloween party.
Ben Gardner, 30, was out celebrating Halloween with his girlfriend in the early hours of Sunday morning when she had her witch's hat taken from her head by some men.
Mr Gardner attempted to retrieve the hat and was attacked by the men, who kicked and punched him, leaving him unconscious on the street. His girlfriend was also punched.
The Metropolitan police said today they were called to Throwley Way in Sutton, south London, at 03:34 GMT on Sunday, to reports a man had been assaulted. Mr Gardner was taken to hospital by the London ambulance service where he died later that evening.
Five men and two women were arrested in connection with the incident and remain in custody at various south London police stations.
Detective Inspector Bob Campany said: "Although it was 03:30 GMT there were a lot of people in the area at the time of the incident as the local clubs were closing. We would like any information from witnesses who may have been on Throwley Way at the time.
"This appears to be a violent unprovoked attack on an innocent man who was out enjoying Halloween night with his girlfriend."
A post-mortem examination will be scheduled in due course.
Anyone with information is asked to call the Sutton incident room on 020 8721 4005 or, to remain anonymous, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.