A WANSTEAD man has been questioned by detectives in connection with a cold-blooded murder in Forest Gate.

Officers from the Barking murder squad, who are investigating the death of father-of-five Alan Musgrove, raided 24 Merino Close, Wanstead, last Tuesday night but found it unoccupied.

However, detectives have confirmed they spoke to a man following the raid on July 9.

Det Chief Insp Stephen Kavanagh said: "We did question a man informally but he wasn't arrested or charged. However, we can't eliminate him from the enquiry.

"We are still trying to find out the motive behind the killing and would, therefore, urge people to jog their memories and come forward if they know anything which may be of help."

Mr Musgrove was shot dead after struggling with a man who tried to force his way into his house in Tower Hamlets Road.

His long-term partner Lauren Chambers, 37, stepped in to help but a second man is thought to have shot the 39-year-old in the chest at close range. Mr Musgrove died at Newham General Hospital shortly afterwards.

A Merino Close resident, who did not want to be named, told the Guardian: "There must be at least 15 of them living in the raided house. They come and go from about 11pm onwards. They must have been tipped off. I can't believe there's not a single solitary one of them in there now."

Both attackers, who made their escape on foot, were described as black and wearing dark clothing. One of them was described as tall, with a black hat rolled up on his head.

One of them wore a black jacket with yellow and red stripes and carried a red pizza delivery bag.

Anyone with any information should ring the incident room on 8345 3734. Alternatively, if anyone wishes to remain anonymous, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

July 18, 2002 13:00