A construction worker from Lewisham, Carl Cooper, aged 65, is set to face trial in June 2024 after being charged with the murders of Naomi Hunte, 41, and Fiona Holm, 48. The accused had been in a relationship with both women at different times.
The body of Naomi Hunte was discovered at her residence on Congleton Grove in Woolwich on February 14 last year. She had not been seen alive for several days and was found partially clothed with a single stab wound to the chest.
Carl Cooper, residing on Broadfield Road near Hither Green, was initially arrested on suspicion of murder four days after Ms Hunte’s body was found. He was later released on bail and subsequently released under investigation pending further inquiries.
Fiona Holm, described as a vulnerable person, was reported missing on June 29 of this year. The last known sighting of her was at an off-licence in Verdant Lane, Bromley, nine days prior. Concerns were raised by her family after discovering mouldy food in her fridge and mouldy linen in the washing machine at her home. Given the unusual circumstances surrounding her disappearance and the substantial time elapsed since she was last seen, the police launched a murder investigation. Efforts are currently underway to locate Fiona Holm’s body in the southeast London area.
On July 18, Carl Cooper was scheduled to appear at the Old Bailey; however, he was unable to be produced in person or via video link from Thameside prison. In his absence, Judge Richard Marks KC continued the hearing and set a plea hearing for October 3, followed by a four-week trial commencing on June 4 next year, presided over by a High Court judge. The judge ordered arrangements to be made for Cooper to appear in court on the following day to be updated on his case.
Detective Chief Inspector Kate Blackburn, leading the investigation, expressed condolences to the families and friends of both victims. She encouraged anyone with information regarding Fiona Holm’s last movements since June 20 to come forward, emphasizing the significance of even the smallest details in helping establish what happened to her. The police have released a CCTV image believed to be the last sighting of Fiona Holm.
The trial proceedings and ongoing investigation will continue to provide support to the families affected by these tragic events as they seek justice and closure.
