Man found dead in car outside Stratford shopping center amid murder investigation

A suspected murder victim whose body was found in a car in an east London car park has been photographed for the first time.

Chaudhury Mahmood, 45, from the Newham area, was found dead in a car parked at the Stratford Center shopping complex at around 1.15am on January 10.

Vasile Gorghescu, 41, was arrested on the same day and charged with murder.

Scotland Yard said on Tuesday: “Pending official identification, we can confirm that the deceased is Chaudhary Mahmood, 45, from the Newham area.

“His next of kin have been informed and are being supported by a specially trained officer.”

A relative told MyLondon that at the time of his death Mr Mahmood was working at a mobile phone shop in Stratford Centre.

Gorghescu, of Rayner Gardens in Southampton, appeared in custody at Barkingside Crown Court on Friday January 12 and was remanded in custody.

He was next due to appear at the Old Bailey on Monday January 15, the Met Police said.

The Standard approached the force for details of what happened at that hearing.

Call the force on 101 ref CAD 4130/09Jan with information. To remain anonymous, call the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.