Sisters of Putney Pusher suspect Nicholas Brandram urge Home Secretary to clear his name

Sisters appeal to Home Secretary

The sisters of Nicholas Brandram, the man suspected of being the so-called Putney Pusher, have called on the Home Secretary to help clear his name after his death. Brandram was found dead at his home in West London just over a week ago. It is thought he took his own life.

Background to the case

He had been investigated after a woman was pushed into the path of a bus by a jogger on Putney Bridge in 2017. Footage of the incident was seen by millions online. The bus driver was praised for swerving and saving the woman's life.

Family criticism

Speaking on Good Morning Britain, Brandram's sisters said he was innocent and that police held evidence that could prove it. They said an innocent man had died while a psychopath remained at large. They criticised the Metropolitan Police, saying the investigation contributed to their brother taking his own life. One sister said a detective had told Brandram not to worry, that the case would be solved shortly, and that police were waiting for a laboratory result and a DNA test. After his death, the family said the Met had referred to lines of inquiry. They asked what those lines were and called for the outstanding DNA test to be completed so his name could be cleared.

Family's account of evidence

The family said the outstanding DNA test would exonerate him. They described Brandram as having a withered leg from his time in the armed forces, a prominent military tattoo on his forearm and very distinctive blue eyes. They said the victim had reported that the perpetrator had brown eyes. They argued that the victim, the bus driver or another witness would have noticed if he had only one calf or had a visible tattoo when he crossed the road.

Human cost and police response

His sisters said his reputation meant a great deal. They described three months of pressure and said they had told him not to read everything online. They said he had a child, young nephews and a niece, as well as family, friends and colleagues. They said having the allegation public was too much for him and described him as a wonderful person with a fantastic spirit. The Met said its thoughts were with Mr Brandram's family and friends and that it understood the strain that being subject to a police investigation can place on individuals. The force said its investigation remains ongoing and that complex cases can take months to complete. A mandatory referral has been made to the police watchdog.