Elderly man charged with rape and murder of Bristol woman nearly 60 years ago
92-year-old Ryland Headley from Ipswich is due before Bristol Magistrates Court
Last updated 20th Nov 2024
A 92-year-old man has been charged with the rape and murder of a woman who was found dead in Bristol 57 years ago.
Ryland Headley from Ipswich appeared at Bristol Magistrates Court earlier today (20th November) via video link.
The body of Louisa Dunne, who was 75, was found by a neighbour inside her home in Britannia Road in the Easton area of Bristol, on Wednesday 28 June, 1967.
During the court hearing, District Judge Lynne Matthews said: "There are two charges which are alleged against you.
"The first is that between the 26th and 29th of June 1967 in Easton, Bristol, you murdered Louisa Dunne.
"The second allegation is that between the same dates in Bristol, you raped Louisa Dunne, a woman."
Headley, who was accompanied by his solicitor, was not asked to enter pleas to the two charges against him.
He spoke only to confirm his name, date of birth and address, and that he understood the hearing was taking place as if he was physically present in court.
A second hearing will take place at Bristol Crown Court on Thursday.
"I have no power to consider the question of your bail, and therefore you will be remanded in custody until tomorrow," the District Judge said.
The cause of Ms Dunne's death was recorded as strangulation and asphyxiation.
Detective Inspector Dave Marchant from Avon and Somerset Police said: "This development marks a hugely significant moment in this investigation.
"Now criminal proceedings are underway it’s important to stress the defendant has the right to a fair trial. Any speculation or misinformation on the circumstances of this case has the potential to prejudice these ongoing proceedings.
“We’ve updated Louisa’s family about this charging decision and a specialist liaison officer will continue to support them in the coming days, weeks and months.”