Key Points
- Daniel Watkis, 39, of Glenarm Road, Hackney, charged with murder on September 26, 2025
- Body of Junior Ryan Coleman found in a derelict building in Lewisham on September 19, 2025
- Junior Ryan Coleman reported missing on August 20, 2025
- Death caused by blunt force trauma to the head, confirmed by post-mortem
- Murder investigation launched on September 20, 2025
- Watkis appeared at Bromley Magistrates’ Court and remanded in custody
- Next court appearance scheduled for October 24, 2025, at the Old Bailey
- Police appealing for public assistance, especially anyone who saw Junior during summer 2025
- Family of Junior Ryan Coleman supported by specialist officers
- Public urged to contact police or Crimestoppers with information
What happened in south east London regarding the murder charge?
A man, Daniel Watkis, aged 39, from Glenarm Road, Hackney, was charged with murder following the discovery of a body in a derelict building located on Brockley Road, Lewisham, south east London. The charge was made official on Friday, September 26, 2025, one week after police found the body during a search operation into a missing person case. Watkis appeared the same day at Bromley Magistrates’ Court, where he was remanded in custody with a scheduled hearing at the Old Bailey on October 24, 2025.
Who was the victim and when was the body found?
The body discovered was that of Junior Ryan Coleman, who had been reported missing on August 20, 2025. Officers located his remains during a search of a derelict building at 8:17 am on September 19, 2025. The body was found inside the abandoned structure as part of the investigation into his disappearance. The discovery prompted an immediate murder probe.
What did the post-mortem examination reveal?
A post-mortem examination confirmed that Junior Ryan Coleman died from blunt force trauma to his head. This finding led police to classify the case as a murder investigation, officially launched on September 20, 2025, the day after the body was found. The serious nature of the injuries aligned with law enforcement’s suspicions of foul play.
What legal actions have been taken against Daniel Watkis?
Daniel Watkis was arrested on Thursday, September 25, 2025, and formally charged with murder the following day. His initial court appearance took place at Bromley Magistrates’ Court on the same date as his charge, Friday, September 26. Watkis was subsequently remanded in custody. His next court date is set for Friday, October 24, 2025, at the Old Bailey, where the case will proceed further.
How are the victim’s family being supported?
Specialist police officers have been assigned to support Junior Ryan Coleman’s family through this difficult time. The family has been informed about the investigation and the developments following the discovery of the body and the charges against Watkis. Support services remain available to assist them during this distressing period.
What is the police appeal regarding this case?
Detective Chief Inspector Sam Townsend, leading the investigation, has appealed to the public for help. He emphasised the importance of any information, no matter how small, that could assist in clarifying the circumstances surrounding Junior’s disappearance and murder. Townsend particularly urged anyone who knew Junior or saw him during the summer months of 2025 to come forward. Contact can be made via the police on 101 or online quoting CAD 1574/19SEP, the incident room on 020 8721 4961, or through Crimestoppers anonymously at 0800 555 111.
What are the next steps in the investigation?
Police continue their investigations into the murder of Junior Ryan Coleman, working rapidly to piece together what happened. The legal process will continue with Watkis due to appear at the Old Bailey for further hearings. Meanwhile, the investigative team encourages anyone with knowledge related to the case to come forward to aid in delivering justice.
