Police arrest Richard Clayton on suspicion of murdering his mother Angela Biggs at their Upton Park home in East London following heart surgery complications

The quiet streets of Upton Park, East London, were disrupted on Tuesday afternoon when emergency services were called to a semi-detached home.

Inside, 74-year-old grandmother Angela Biggs was found dead.

Her son, 44-year-old Richard Clayton, who had been living with her to provide care, was arrested at the scene on suspicion of her murder.

The shock has rippled through neighbours and friends who knew the family for decades.

A Life Marked by Love and Loss

Angela Biggs had lived at the property for over 25 years and had endured significant personal losses.

Her first marriage produced two sons, Richard and the late Peter, who tragically died at just 18. She later married Isaac Biggs and had a daughter.

In recent years, her health had been fragile — she underwent heart surgery last November and had a pacemaker fitted.

Despite these challenges, she remained active in her community and deeply connected to those around her.

Neighbours describe Angela as the epitome of kindness.

“She was the nicest person you could meet, softly spoken, always willing to help,” said one long-term friend.

The pair shared daily conversations over the garden fence and helped one another with everyday chores.

Angela’s gentle nature made the news of her death all the more shocking for the local community.

Richard Clayton’s Role and Arrest

Richard Clayton moved back into the family home about a year ago to care for his mother as her health declined.

Neighbours recall seeing him accompanying her to the shops, cooking her favourite meals, and generally attending to her daily needs.

For many, the arrest seemed impossible to comprehend.

One neighbour said, “He seemed a dutiful son, that’s why I’m so surprised that he’s been arrested on suspicion of her murder. It doesn’t make any sense.”

Police officers arrived at the house just after 12:30pm.

Attempts to resuscitate Angela were unsuccessful, and she was pronounced dead at the scene.

Richard was seen being led away in handcuffs wearing casual home clothes, underscoring the sudden and shocking nature of the arrest.

Health Struggles and Community Concern

Angela’s medical history had been a source of ongoing concern for her family and friends.

She spent significant time in hospital late last year and was described as frail and weakened following surgery.

A neighbour noted her diminished physical state, adding that she appeared “really frail and tired” when last seen in January.

Despite her condition, she expressed appreciation for her son’s care, highlighting the tragic irony of the circumstances surrounding her death.

Police Investigation and Statements

A spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police confirmed officers were called to reports of a death at St George’s Square in Upton Park.

“Officers who arrived first at the scene attempted to provide first aid, but the woman was sadly pronounced dead,” the spokesperson said.

Chief Superintendent Dan Card described the incident as “incredibly sad” and reassured the public that the investigation was being treated as an isolated incident.

Police have sealed the crime scene while inquiries continue.

Specialist officers are supporting Angela’s next of kin, and authorities are appealing for anyone with information to contact them or Crimestoppers anonymously.

The Community Reacts

Neighbours expressed shock and disbelief.

Angela’s friend reflected on her neighborly acts of kindness and the difficulty of reconciling the son’s arrest with the image of a devoted caregiver.

The family’s tragedy has brought grief and confusion to the local community, emphasizing how sudden incidents like this can ripple through a neighborhood.

What’s Next?

Authorities are expected to continue their investigation over the coming weeks, including:

• Examining the events leading up to Angela’s death to determine the exact circumstances.

• Conducting interviews with family, friends, and neighbours to gather insights into the household dynamic.

• Reviewing medical records and any relevant care arrangements to understand potential contributing factors.

• Ensuring the local community is informed and supported while the case proceeds through the legal system.

The police are urging anyone with information to come forward, emphasizing that even small details could help clarify this tragic event.

Summary

Angela Biggs, a 74-year-old grandmother from Upton Park, East London, was found dead at her home, where she had lived for more than 25 years.

Her son, Richard Clayton, 44, who had moved in to care for her following serious heart surgery, was arrested on suspicion of her murder.

Neighbours described Angela as a kind and gentle woman, devoted to her family and community.

The Metropolitan Police confirmed the incident is being treated as isolated and continue to investigate while supporting the family.

Authorities are appealing for witnesses or anyone with relevant information to contact them.