Man charged with murder of couple near Colchester

The deaths of Stephen and Carol Baxter in April were initially treated as not suspicious

A detective from Essex Police at the scene on Mersea Island near Colchester
Author: Jonny FreemanPublished 8th Jul 2023
Last updated 8th Jul 2023

A 33 year old man's been charged with the murder of a married couple near Colchester.

The bodies of Stephen and Carol Baxter - who both were in their 60s - were discovered at a home in Victory Road on Mersea Island about 1.30pm on Sunday 9th April (Easter Sunday).

Ever since detectives have been trying to work out why they died, but there's now been a breakthrough in the case.

The couple's deaths were initially treated as not suspicious, but detectives say that has since changed after new information came to light.

As a result of an extensive investigation and toxicology analysis, two men and a woman were arrested on Thursday 6 July in order to gain comprehensive accounts from them.

Luke D'Wit from Churchfields in West Mersea is accused of murder, possessing Class A drugs and theft.

The 33 year old is due to appear at Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court today (Saturday 8th July).

A woman and a man have been released on bail as other enquires take place.

Detective Inspector Lydia George, who is leading Essex Police's investigation, said:

“This is a significant development in our investigation as we piece together the circumstances around the deaths of Carol and Stephen.

“I would like to thank everyone who has come forward to speak to us throughout this complex investigation.”

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