Gambling addict convicted of murdering grandmother in east London

GAMBLING ADDICT CONVICTED OF MURDERING GRANDMOTHER IN EAST LONDON

Thomas Blazquez, aged 51 and from South Woodford, was found guilty of killing Rosemary Shearman at her home in Hornchurch on September 3.

The victim, a 77-year-old grandmother, was remembered by her relatives as a nurturing and affectionate family figure.

Blazquez was facing substantial gambling debts and battling depression at the time of the incident.

He visited Mrs.

Shearman’s residence for reasons that remain unclear; although she was cautious of strangers, she likely allowed him inside due to their acquaintance through her bridge club.

After the assault, she was discovered bound, gagged, and physically assaulted.

Police found Blazquez in the bathroom, bloodstained, with self-inflicted injuries on his wrists and neck.

He was convicted and received a life sentence at Southwark Crown Court, with a minimum term of 18 years.

Descriptions from police and her family highlighted her as a loving grandmother, while her relatives expressed relief over the verdict, stating, “The sentence is some small measure of justice for our mother’s tragic death.” During court proceedings, it was revealed that Blazquez was manipulative and responsible for her untimely death, which was a devastating loss for her family.