Second man charged with murder more than 5 years after fatal Epping stabbing
Stephen Morrisson was fatally injured in a car park in Epping Road in June 2020
Two men have appeared in court charged with the murder of Stephen Morrisson, who died after being stabbed in Epping in over 5 years ago.
The 30-year-old was fatally injured in a car park in Epping Road shortly before 8pm on Tuesday 23rd June 2020.
Stephen drove away from the scene but collapsed on the forecourt of a Shell garage before members of the public attempted to help him and called the emergency services.
He died in hospital shortly after.
Detectives have analysed over 200 hours of CCTV footage and reviewed thousands of items, including more than 50 phones, close to 40 computer items, and five vehicles, as part of a wide-reaching investigation into the case.
In July 2020, police charged 28-year-old Yonas Girma, of Hounslow Road, Hanworth, with murder.
This month, officers charged Ellis Heather, 25, previously of Farm Close, Taplow, Maidenhead, with the same offence.
The two men appeared at the Central Criminal Court on 23rd December and denied the charge.
A provisional trial date has been set for 18th May 2025.
Detective Chief Inspector Greg Wood, who leads the investigation for the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate, spoke of the dedication of the team involved in investigating Stephen’s murder.
“This investigation has progressed over the last five years, through a number of challenges, and we have always remained focused on securing justice for Stephen’s family and friends,” Greg said.
“Whilst our meticulous trial preparation work is now underway, we always have the loss Stephen’s family feel at the forefront of our minds.”