Police have unveiled fresh CCTV footage in connection with a homicide inquiry following the discovery of a man’s body in a natural reserve. Investigators are seeking a woman seen walking a dog at Southampton Common, believing she may possess valuable information for their investigation into the death of 45-year-old Ernest Konrad Deputat at Ornamental Lake on October 8.
Authorities noted signs of a significant fire at the scene, prompting the launch of a murder probe. Two individuals arrested in connection with the case have been released on bail. Hampshire Police disclosed that Mr. Deputat, a Polish citizen, had been living off the grid in the common area and was familiar within Southampton’s homeless community.
The police released a new CCTV image, appealing for the woman in the footage, spotted with a dog on the morning of September 6 at Southampton Common, to come forward with any relevant information. They urged her or anyone who knows her identity to contact them promptly. Additionally, the police encouraged anyone present at Southampton Common on the morning of September 6, especially dog walkers, to reach out with any information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, as it could be crucial to the investigation.
Following Mr. Deputat’s demise, his family remembered him as a modest yet dream-driven individual, whose humor and warmth left a lasting impression on everyone he met. The family expressed their longing for him and shared heartfelt sentiments, thanking him for the cherished moments and memories. The family bid farewell, acknowledging Ernest’s self-determined life choices and expressing hope to reunite in the future.
