Man charged with murder of Claire Chick in Plymouth
The 48 year old died from injuries she suffered in the city on Wednesday night
Last updated 26th Jan 2025
A man has been charged with the murder of a woman in Plymouth.
4\8 year old Claire Chick was found injured in the West Hoe Road area of the city on Wednesday night (22nd January 2025), but she sadly died a few hours later.
Paul Butler, who's 53 and from Stangray Avenue in Plymouth, is due to appear at Plymouth Magistrates' Court tomorrow (Monday 27th January 2025) charged with murder.
Devon and Cornwall Police say they're continuing to support Claire's family - and their investigation is ongoing.
Senior Investigating Officer Detective Inspector Rob Smith said: “We have specialist officers in place to continue to provide support to Claire’s family.
“Our investigation is ongoing, and I would like to thank the local community for their support whilst we have carried out our enquiries over the past few days.”
Ms Chick, who was previously known as Claire Butler, worked as a lecturer at the University of Plymouth.
In a previous statement released by police, her family said: "We are absolutely devastated and broken at the loss of our beautiful caring mother Claire Chick.
"She was the most beautiful lively soul and was there for everyone.
"Everyone who knew our mum had so much positive words to say about her. She was the life and soul of any place where she was.
"She loved to dance and sing, even though she was pretty bad at it; she had no shame in doing it in front of any audience.
"We will never get over this as a family, she was our glue and our go-to. We won't ever get the justice our mum deserves for this, because no amount of justice will bring her back.
"We want to thank everyone for their kind words, and we invite anyone who knew her to share their memories of her.
"We also would like to remind the public she leaves behind five beautiful grandchildren who all refer to her as 'a favourite grandma'.
"We ask you to respect their privacy, and everyone remains respectful to them.
"She may be gone but her spirit will always remain alive. We love you mum, and we promise to make you proud."