THE man who died after after being found seriously injured in South Norwood is believed to be a Micheal Hunt of nearby Holmesdale Road, the Advertiser understands.
Police have not yet formally identified the 37-year-old who was found in an alleyway off Station Road yesterday morning and died a few hours' later in hospital.
Murder detectives are investigating and Station Road remains sealed off by police. No arrests have yet been made.
Local residents said yesterday the victim well-known in the area as 'Irish Mike', often seen in pubs and shops.
A post mortem is being carried out at the Princess Royal University Hospital with a cause of death and formal identification expected later on today or early tomorrow.
The man was found in an alleyway in between Benson estate agents and the Co-op supermarket. The Advertiser understands he was found in a bin and had been badly beaten.
Kandiah Subodaran, who owns Kupra News and Counter News in High Street next to Station Road, said another shopkeeper had found the injured man while opening that morning.
Mr Subodaran added: "They are shocked and we are shocked as well.
"He was a local customer, no trouble. His mother lives nearby.
"I have known him coming in here about ten years.
"I saw him I think two or three days ago."
Local resident Trevor French, 52, said he first met 'Irish Mike' about six years ago.
He said: "He was a quiet guy, done his own thing, never really seemed like he bothered anyone."
Bill Park, 55, said: "I have only lived here for about six months so I did not know him that well.
"He was always nice enough to me. It is awful."
The owner of a nearby hairdresser, who asked not to be named, added: "He has been around this area for a long time.
"Sometimes he would come down here and ask for a bit of change.
"I cannot remember the last time I saw him personally but it would have been recently."
Police are appealing for the public's help in working out what happened.
DCI Diane Tudway said yesterday afternoon: "We do not know, at this time, how the victim sustained his injuries, nor have we established a motive for any attack on him.
"If you have any information that can help us understand how this man was hurt and who may have been involved, please contact the incident room on 020 8721 4005.
"To remain anonymous, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."
