‘DNA and fingerprints link accused killer to the scene’

An alleged killer charged with knifing a man to death nearly 39 years ago was linked to the crime by DNA found at the scene, the Old Bailey heard.

Paul Bryan, 61, is accused of murdering 63-year-old Roman Szalajko at an address in Seaton Close, Kennington, south London, in February 1984.

Bryan is also charged with possession of a false passport between 2 October 2012 and 19 November 2022.

He was arrested after returning to the UK on a flight from Spain last Saturday (19).

Bryan appeared in court today (thurs) via video-link from HMP Thameside wearing a green jumper speaking to confirm his name.

Prosecutor Heather Stangoe said: ‘This case was identified from a cold case review for the murder of the deceased which was committed on 7 February 1984.

‘He had been identified with DNA found at the scene, specifically from clumps of hair consistent with hair found at the struggle and also with a fingerprint.

‘Three days after the murder he gained a passport and fled the country.’

He was remanded in custody ahead of a plea and trial preparation hearing at the Old Bailey on 17 February 2023 while his trial was fixed for 16 October.