Police have launched a murder investigation after an 85-year-old patient died following reports of an assault at a hospital in London.

The Metropolitan Police said officers were called to Charing Cross Hospital in Hammersmith on 18 September after a report of a patient being assaulted by another patient.

Officers said that the victim – named as Andrew Farmer, 85, from Ealing – died on 25 September after sustaining serious injuries.

A 70-year-old man was arrested at the scene, the force said.

In a statement on Wednesday, the Met Police said that Anatoliy Podmazko, 70, of no fixed address, was charged on 20 September with grievous bodily harm.

He is next set to appear at Isleworth Crown Court, west London, on 17 October.

Detective Inspector Kirsten Hadleigh, who is leading the murder investigation, said: “Our thoughts remain with Andrew’s family and friends at this undoubtedly difficult time.

“We remain in close contact with Andrew’s loved ones and are keeping them up to date with the progress of our investigation.”

Paul Wrigley, Andrew’s partner, said in a statement through the police: “My partner through thick and thin for 60 years. Now sadly missed.

“An Oxford First – whatever he touched, he touched deeply – opera, Devon topography, the underprivileged. Scholarly, but with a wry sense of humour.

“Rest now, my dear friend.”