Man, 92, charged with rape and murder of woman in 1967

20 November 2024, 09:38 | Updated: 20 November 2024, 11:11

A 92-year-old man charged with the rape and murder of a woman in Bristol in 1967 has appeared in court.

Police have named Ryland Headley, from Ipswich, after arresting him earlier this week.

This came after a forensic review of the case which began last year.

He was charged overnight and appeared at Bristol Magistrates' Court via video link on Wednesday.

Louisa Dunne, 75, was found dead by a neighbour in her home in the Easton area of Bristol in June 1967.

She had been strangled and raped.

Detective Inspector Dave Marchant said: "This development marks a hugely significant moment in this investigation.

"Now criminal proceedings are under way 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."

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During the court appearance on Wednesday, Headley was remanded into custody.

He did not enter pleas to the two charges against him and only spoke to confirm his name, date of birth, address and that he understood the hearing was taking place as if he was physically present in court.

Concluding the appearance, district judge Lynne Matthews told the defendant: "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."

The judge added that the matter would be sent to Bristol Crown Court, with a hearing tomorrow.

Avon and Somerset Police said the murder is the oldest cold case on its books - and this is the first time in the force's history an arrest has been made almost 60 years after a crime.

Suffolk Constabulary supported the investigation and there will be further police activity in the Ipswich area moving forward.

(c) Sky News 2024: Man, 92, charged with rape and murder of woman in 1967