Man mugged in hospital as wife lay dying

A husband missed his dying wife's last moments after being mugged in hospital lavatories on his way to visit her, police said.

The 64-year-old was dragged from a corridor into a toilet for disabled people. There he was robbed and beaten, with the thief even taking a packet of biscuits intended for the victim's wife.

Police said she died while he was being treated at Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Woolwich, south east London. The Asian man, from Blackheath, was discovered shortly after 7.30pm on Tuesday. He was treated for a fractured cheekbone, fractured eye socket and severe bruising to his ribs and head.

His cash, wallet and mobile phone were stolen along with a plastic carrier bag containing a newspaper, soft drinks and the biscuits.

Detective Inspector Rick Murphy-of Plumstead robbery squad in south-east London, described the attack as "sickening".

He said: "He had just got a call from the hospital to say his wife was in her last hours. He was on his way to say his last goodbyes when he was attacked.

"The circumstances would be bad enough just as they stand. But as the victim was being treated for his injuries, his wife died." He added: "I went to see the gentleman in hospital today and he is still in tears." Officers are looking at CCTV footage to see if the suspect was caught on camera. He is described as white, between 25 and 30 years old, of slim build and about 6ft tall. He had what police have described as a "bad" complexion and wore a dark beanie hat and a dark, three-quarter length duffel coat.

He would have been carrying a white Asda carrier bag.

Anyone with information is urged to call 020 8284 9418.