Man appears in court charged with murder after body found in Basildon
It's believed to be a missing local woman
Last updated 1st Aug 2022
An Essex man has appeared in court charged with the murder of a young mother who was last seen 10 days ago.
Gary Bennett, 36, is charged with the murder of 30-year-old Madison Wright in Basildon between 22nd July and 25th July this year.
The defendant, of Caister Drive, Pitsea, dabbed his eyes with a tissue and appeared emotional when he appeared before Southend Magistrates’ Court on Monday.
Bennett, who had a shaved head and goatee beard, a tattoo on his neck and wore a grey prison-issue tracksuit, was not asked to enter a plea during the hearing which lasted less than two minutes.
He spoke only to confirm his name, date of birth and address.
The defendant was remanded in custody to appear before Basildon Crown Court for a preliminary hearing on 3rd August.
Essex Police said that Ms Wright has not been seen or heard from since the morning of 22nd July.
Her car, a black Vauxhall Astra, was found four days later on 26th July in Brackendale Avenue in Basildon.
The force said that a body was found at Wat Tyler Country Park in Basildon on Saturday, with the park and a nearby recycling centre closed while officers continue with inquiries.
The body has yet to be formally identified but Ms Wright’s family have been informed of the development and continue to be supported by specialist detectives, police said.
Anyone who has information is urged to come forwards.
Officers particularly want to speak to anyone who saw Madison or her car, a black Vauxhall Astra with the registration EU13 JVW - between 8.30am on 22nd and 26th July.
A dedicated phone line has been set up and the number is: 0207 1267612