Daughter has ‘restless nights’ as search for mother’s remains continues

The daughter of a woman whose body was not found after she was murdered by her abusive boyfriend has described her restless nights not knowing where her mother’s remains are.

Fiona Holm, 48, was killed by handyman Carl Cooper, 66, at her flat in Catford, south-east London, on June 20, 2023.

He was jailed for life in July this year for her murder and the murder of another former partner Naomi Hunte, 41, who was stabbed to death on Valentine’s Day 2022.

In a statement released by the Metropolitan Police, Ms Holm’s daughter, Savannah Holm-Aderemi, said: “This year is the second Christmas without my beloved mother.

“As the grief continues, the restless nights continue knowing that she has been there for so long, and no one has come forward with any information, which I find disturbing.

“The thought of us finding his remains is sickening, but it would also bring peace to my entire family.

“My grandmother hasn’t been the same since. The only thing she worries about is where her daughter is, because she wants to be found. It’s her daughter’s big heart and kindness that Nan misses the most.

A £20,000 reward is being offered for information leading to the discovery of Ms Holm’s remains.

Detective Chief Inspector Kate Blackburn said: “My team did a huge amount of work trying to find Fiona, using specialist teams to search areas she was known to frequent, open spaces, plans of water, houses, cars and cells.

“Thousands of hours of CCTV were captured and viewed, extensive mobile phone investigations were examined and hundreds of witness statements were taken, including interviews with Fiona’s family and friends. These efforts have continued since Cooper’s conviction.

“This Christmas our thoughts are with Fiona’s family, who are still waiting for answers almost two years after her tragic murder. Our thoughts are also with Naomi’s family at this difficult time.

“I am appealing to anyone who could help with the ongoing search for Fiona’s remains to come forward, even if you think your information might be insignificant. Perhaps now that Cooper has been convicted, you feel able to come forward and tell us what you know or have heard.

The independent watchdog for police conduct is investigating how the Met handled complaints made by the two women about the abuse they suffered at the hands of Cooper.

A spokesperson said: “We have launched an independent investigation into complaints relating to the deaths of Naomi Hunte and Fiona Holm, murdered by Carl Cooper.

“In October 2024, we received complaints from the Met from the families of the two victims, alleging serious failings in the investigations carried out by the force before their deaths.

“Our investigation, which is in its early stages, will examine previous contact with police relating to both victims.”

Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Ms Holm’s remains can call police on 020 8721 4005 or, to remain anonymous, contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 or online.