Police Release Photo Of Southampton Murder Victim

Detectives investigating the murder of a Southampton man found dead in a Coxford stream have released a photograph of his injuries in the hope someone will come forward with information.

The body of 42-year-old Shawn Williams (also known as Simon) of Victoria Road, Woolston, was found on the evening of Tuesday, July 20 in woodland off Springford Road, Coxford.
 
It is thought Mr Williams discharged himself from Southampton General Hospital on Saturday July 3, after an assault in the Northam area of the city, in which he sustained head injuries.
 
Police believe Mr Williams was attacked from behind in Princes Court as he walked through the estate between 7.30am and 8.30am and died later from his injuries after leaving hospital.
 
Det Chief Insp Dave Powell from Major Crime, said:

“We’ve released this image showing Shawn Williams after he was assaulted in the hope that someone living locally will have the courage to speak out and help us lock up who did this.
 
“Shawn’s parents have allowed us to release this picture as they want us to find the person, or people, who murdered their son. 
 
“I have a strong and clear message for the people of Northam. If you saw what happened on July 3, or have any information, we need you to come forward.
 
“We cannot allow whoever killed Shawn to walk the streets. We are working hard and have a team of experienced officers focused on this investigation, but we cannot do this alone and we need the people of Northam to tell us what they know.      
 
“People living in the estate have they key to helping us solve this and I cannot imagine what Shawn’s family are going through. If you talk to us we have ways of protecting you, do not be afraid and there are lots of ways of reporting information to us.” 
 
Mr Williams was a very distinctive man at 6ft 5ins tall. He had ginger/brown hair, weighed approximately 17-18 stone, had size 11-12 feet and was of athletic build. On the day his body was found he was wearing an XL size purple round- neck, ‘TU’ brand T shirt, dark blue trousers and Asics gel trainers.  
 
Anyone with any information can speak to Major Crime direct by phoning 02380 599832, text us on 07503 918572 or email operation.savannah@hampshire.pnn.police.uk and quote Operation Savannah. You can also leave your information on a recorded message by phoning Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 and do not have to leave your name.

Shawn's parents said:

"Our son Simon was a quiet, gentle man, with an easy-going, friendly temperament.

"He did not drink, smoke or take drugs, and was so keen to keep healthy and became a vegetarian.

"He enjoyed tennis, cycling, keeping fit, but most of all he enjoyed music and playing one of his several guitars.

"He was as much a friend as a son and will be sadly missed by us, his mother and dad."