Picture released of woman as police carry out murder probe

Police have released a picture of a woman as they attempt to solve a murder.

The body of Ernest Konrad Deputat, 45, was found by a member of the public in woodland on Southampton Common on Wednesday 8 October. His body was north of Ornamental Lake and there was also evidence of a fire.

Ernest was a Polish national, who was living off-grid and known to the homeless community in the city. Following the discovery of his body, a murder investigation was immediately launched.

Two men were subsequently arrested and bailed in connection with the investigation.

Now police believe the woman in this image, who was seen walking a dog on Southampton Common on the morning of Saturday 6 May, might be able to help. “Do you recognise this woman? We know from CCTV footage that this woman may have witnessed something which is important to an ongoing murder investigation,” a police spokesperson said.

“We would urge her, or anyone who knows her identity, to please get in touch with us at the earliest opportunity.

“It is possible that this woman has already been previously spoken to by investigators. However, as part of new information received and further developments in our investigation, we would like to speak to her once more.

“If you were also in the area of Southampton Common on the morning of Saturday 6 September, please get in contact with us. We are particularly keen to hear from any dog walkers who are still yet to come forward.

“No matter how small or insignificant you think the information may be, it could be key to our investigation.”

Call police on 101 and quote incident number 44250456238. You can also report online via the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary website: How to tell us about an existing case or report | Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary

Alternatively, please contact Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111 or go to: Independent UK charity taking crime information anonymously | Crimestoppers