Clapham Common in South London was the site of a “a sustained and violent attack” on a 24-year-old barman that left him unconscious late Friday night. The victim, Jody Dobrowski, died early Saturday after being brought to a hospital.
Based on the reports of people in the area who heard shouts around the time of the murder, the police are classifying the attack as homophobic. Chief Inspector: “This attack was abhorrent and the victim was assaulted violently.” The victim had been with friends near the common until around 10:15 Friday evening.
Two suspects are still at large. Police describe them as in their 20’s and worry that they may strike again. “One is thought to be about 6ft tall with short shaved hair and the other slightly shorter and stockier. Police believe between eight and ten people were in the wooded area where Mr Dobrowski was found between 11pm and 1am. They are urged to come forward with any information they have and to eliminate themselves from the inquiry.”
Clapham Common is known as a cruising area for gay men, and has recently seen a series of muggings and robberies involving attackers posing as cruisers.