A man has been convicted of murdering a father by brutally attacking him and hiding the body in an abandoned building. Daniel Watkis, 30, was found guilty of killing Junior Coleman, 43, after a violent assault at the Brockley Social Club where they were both living rough.

The victim suffered fatal injuries to his head and face from multiple heavy blows with a blunt object, as confirmed by a post-mortem examination. CCTV footage captured Watkis and Coleman entering the social club together and later showed Watkis returning alone before the victim was fatally injured.

Suspicious behavior by Watkis, including repeated glances back at the building and a change in his usual routine, raised concerns. Further investigation revealed Watkis had reported his bank card stolen, which was later found next to Coleman’s body, along with other personal items linking him to the crime scene.

Despite denying knowing the victim during police questioning, evidence of their association was clear from the footage and items found at the scene. Watkis was arrested at his home and eventually found guilty of murder. His sentencing is scheduled for October 9.

Detective Chief Inspector Suzanne Soren, leading the case, expressed sympathy for Coleman’s family and praised the investigative team for their meticulous work in piecing together the evidence. She emphasized the importance of holding perpetrators accountable for serious crimes and ensuring justice is served for the victims and their loved ones.