A “gentle” pensioner stabbed to death in a north London care home was a devoted husband to his ailing wife, friends said today.
Philip Silverstone, 67, was founded stabbed to death in his flat at Spencer House, a Victorian rest home in leafy Belsize Park, on Monday.
A 32-year-old man arrested on suspicion of murder was today being questioned by detectives.
Former neighbours of Mr Silverstone today spoke of their shock at his death.
Hava Osman, from Highbury, was a neighbour of Mr Silverman and his wife Mary until they moved into the OAPs’ home ten years ago.
She said: “I remember Phil and Mary well, we were friends. I can’t see how anyone could hurt him because he was so gentle and cheerful. I’m really shocked, I can’t get over it.”
Ms Osman said she believed that Mr Silverstone was retired and had devoted himself to the full time care of his wife, who suffered stomach problems.
A post-mortem is due to take place at 2pm today.
A Scotland Yard spokesman said: “Police were called at around 10.35am on Monday following concern for the occupants of a flat.
“Mr. Silverstone was suffering what were believed to be stab wounds. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
“Detectives are keeping an open mind about what may have taken place. Currently there is no clear motive and detectives are not jumping to any to conclusions at this early stage.”
