The robbers then grabbed several expensive watches and fled. The next day, the shop owner, whose name is being withheld out of respect for his family, was found dead in his home. While the police have yet to announce the official cause of death, some sources speculate that it may have been suicide, possibly linked to the trauma of the robbery.

A Met Police spokesperson said: "We are aware of the death of a man in Surrey on Sunday, 26 May. This is being investigated by officers from Surrey Police and is not being treated as suspicious at this time”

Richmond, known for its charming streets and friendly atmosphere, has been deeply shaken by this crime. Residents and fellow business owners are in shock. “He was such a kind man, always ready with a smile and a story about his latest watches,” said one local shopkeeper. The police are reviewing security footage from nearby stores and asking anyone who saw anything unusual around 2 p.m. on Saturday to come forward. “Even the smallest detail could be crucial,” said Inspector Collins.

London has seen a disturbing increase in thefts targeting high-end retail establishments, a trend highlighted by several high-profile cases. Just two years ago, boxing champion Amir Khan was the victim of a brazen street robbery in Leyton, East London, where he was threatened at gunpoint for his luxury watch. This incident, among others, highlights the rising boldness of criminals who are increasingly targeting affluent areas and valuable items. The spike in such crimes has left many Londoners feeling vulnerable, prompting calls for more robust policing and better security measures to protect residents and businesses.

This incident is part of a worrying trend of robberies targeting high-end retailers in London. There’s growing concern about safety, and many are calling for better security measures. As the investigation continues, the Richmond community is standing together, supporting the victim’s family and hoping for swift justice.

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