Murder inquiry opened after 85-year-old dies after hospital assault

Police have opened a murder investigation after an 85-year-old man died a week after being allegedly assaulted by a fellow patient at Charing Cross Hospital in Hammersmith. Andrew Farmer of Ealing was found seriously injured on September 18 and died on September 25, authorities said.

Officers were called to the hospital on September 18 and a 70-year-old man was arrested at the scene. He was later charged with grievous bodily harm on September 20 and named as Anatoliy Podmazko, of no fixed address. Police said detectives have since opened a murder inquiry and are working with the Crown Prosecution Service as inquiries continue. Podmazko is due to appear at Isleworth Crown Court on October 17.

Farmer’s partner of 60 years, Paul Wrigley, paid tribute in a statement, saying, "My partner through thick and thin for 60 years. Now sadly missed." He described Farmer as scholarly with a wry sense of humour, and said he had touched deeply those around him. Family members have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers, police said.

Detective Inspector Kirsten Hadleigh, who is leading the inquiry, said investigators remain in close contact with Farmer’s loved ones and are...