Family pay tribute to “modest” man whose body discovered in woodland sparking murder probe

The body of Ernest Konrad Deputat, 45, was located in a wooded area close to the wildlife reserve in the centre of Southampton Common, north of the Ornamental Lake and to the right of Green Path.

Police are continuing to investigate the circumstance’s surrounding Ernest’s death. No one has been arrested.

His family, who continue to be supported by specialist officers, has now paid the following tribute to him. They said: "Ernest, you were a modest, but dream-filled brother and son. Every meeting with you was unforgettable.

“Your smile, accompanying humour and the lightness, with which you conducted the conversation, made people want to be with you. The whole family always missed you and were waiting for you, waiting for your arrival.

“You chose the life you wanted; you were both the ship and the captain for yourself. Be happy now. We thank you for all the fulfilled moments, for every phone call, for every sign that you remembered us. See you soon, your Family.

“We ask that people please respect our privacy at this time and refrain from contacting us. We simply ask that anyone with any information please contact the police.”

Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Chief Inspector Matt Gillooly, said: “First and foremost, my thoughts remain with Ernest’s family at this unimaginably difficult time. We will continue to support them.

“This is a large-scale investigation and our hard work continues as we remain committed to determining Ernest’s final movements, so that we can achieve answers and justice for his family."

If you have any information call 101 and quote incident number 44250456238. Alternatively you can call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.