Fresh Appeal After Homeless Man Murdered

Detectives investigating the murder of a homeless Winchester man have made a fresh appeal for witnesses and information.

Stuart Horsman was taken ill at Winchester train station on the morning of Wednesday, August 3, and was taken to the Royal Hampshire County Hospital for treatment.

The 34-year-old, who was a vulnerable homeless person from Winchester, died later that day.

A post-mortem examination revealed that Mr Horsman died as a result of internal bleeding.

Detectives from the Major Crime Department, who are investigating this case, believe that Mr Horsman may have been assaulted prior to his death and are keen to build a picture of his lifestyle and the people he associated with.

Police think he could have been assaulted more than a week before his death – some time between Monday, July 25 and Wednesday, August 3.

Mr Horsman was regularly seen with friends in the underpass which runs from the taxi rank outside the station, underneath the railway, and out to Stockbridge Road. He was also very well-known in the Winchester area.

Detective Chief Inspector Rachel Farrell, senior investigating officer, said:

“We have been working hard to piece together what may have happened to Mr Horsman in the days prior to his death.

“Officers have been reviewing hours of CCTV footage and speaking to other homeless people in and around Winchester.

"We have also carried out high-profile patrols at the train station and spoken to many commuters who used to see Mr Horsman in the underpass.

“I am keen to hear from anyone we haven’t spoken to who may have information which may assist with our investigation, no matter how insignificant you think it may be.”

Two men aged 32 and 58, both from the Winchester area, were arrested in connection with this incident. Both were released on police bail until November 8, pending further enquiries.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact the Major Crime Team at Hulse Road, Southampton, quoting Operation Tabby, on 101.