A Colombian national, Yostin Andres Mosquera, has been charged with the murder of two men, Paul Longworth, 71, and Albert Alfonso, 62, whose remains were discovered in suitcases near the Clifton suspension bridge in Bristol. The victims, who lived together in Shepherd’s Bush, west London, had Mr. Mosquera as their lodger.
Mr. Mosquera will appear at Wimbledon Magistrates’ Court on Monday and is expected to stand trial at the Central Criminal Court, also known as the Old Bailey, next year.
Following the grim discovery near the bridge, Avon and Somerset Police initiated a manhunt, leading to the involvement of Metropolitan Police. The investigation shifted to a house in Scotts Road, Shepherds Bush, where the victims resided.
The Metropolitan Police stated that while there is no indication of a homophobic motive in the case, they have classified it as a hate crime as a precaution. Enquiries are ongoing to determine any potential connections to other offenses in the UK or overseas.
Detectives Working to Establish a Complete Picture
Detectives are diligently piecing together the circumstances surrounding the murders, including any previous incidents that may be related. Deputy Assistant Commissioner Andy Valentine expressed condolences to the loved ones of Albert and Paul and assured that no additional suspects are being sought at this time.
Mr. Valentine acknowledged the impact of the incident on the Shepherd’s Bush residents and the wider gay community in London, emphasizing ongoing support for the victims’ identified relatives.
The investigation is ongoing, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
PA Media contributed to this report.
