THE family of a man murdered during a burglary-gone-wrong say they are still searching for justice one-year on from the tragedy.

Marc Allen, 51, was killed when he confronted a thief attempting to steal his car from his home back on December 29 in 2019.

Detectives believe the suspect inside the vehicle deliberately drove towards Mr Allen, hitting him and forcing him over the top of the car.

The suspect drove off from the scene and left Mr Allen lying in the road with head injuries.

He was later rushed to hospital but died from his injuries after spending a month in a coma.

Mr Allen lived in Braintree for several years before moving to south London.

He still has family living in the town, including step-daughter Brooke Golbourn, and they have issued a heartfelt plea for anyone with information about the suspected murder to come forward.

The family said: “Just as things were starting to look brighter and Marc was getting back to his normal routine, December 29 happened and those that we can only refer to as cowards attempted to steal his car and ended with Marc badly hurt.

“The four weeks we spent in Kings College Hospital are some of the darkest days as a family, we have had to go through hanging on to the hope that Marc would wake up.

“The emotions that come with grief are a part of life we all must endure at some point, losing Marc in the way we have, brings a level of grief that no one could have prepared us for.

“There is a wound we all carry now that will never fully heal, but with every day, we get stronger, we help each other to smile a little more and appreciate the memories we have of him.”

They added: “Although a year has passed by, we still hang on to hope that Marc will get some justice.” We also wish to pay tribute, thanking those that shone a light and supported us, Family, friends and strangers alike, the amazing staff of the Golden Jubilee ward at Kings College Hospital for the dignity and respect they gave Marc and the kindness they showed the family at such a difficult time. The first responders and the air ambulance for the care they gave to Marc when he needed it most. The police for the effort and support they have given from the start and in all they are doing to bring justice to Marc.

The Metropolitan Police is offering a £10,000 reward for anyone with information about Mr Allen’s murder, which happened in Peareswood Road, Erith.

The force has made three arrests in connection with the incident so far but no one has been charged.

Detective Inspector Jason Fitzpatrick, Specialist Crime South, said: “This was a cold-blooded act.

“For the sake of a stolen car, a man was run down and left helplessly lying in the road. More than anything, we want to find out who is responsible for this and we need those with information to come forward and stop protecting this killer.

“Our enquiries continue and I want anyone who has knowledge to really think about coming forward. Your information could lead to us solving this crime and finally giving Marc’s family a little peace.”

Anyone with information should contact Specialist Crime South on 020 8721 4622.