Woman charged with two murders in Essex

Woman charged with two murders in Essex

A 35-year-old woman has been charged with the murder of two elderly people as police continue an investigation into their disappearance.

Essex Police launched a probe after receiving reports of concern for the well-being of the two people aged in their 70s.

The force has now said it believes the pair have died and charged Virginia McCullough, of Pump Hill, Chelmsford, with two counts of murder.

She is due to appear at Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court on Monday September 18.

A force spokesman said: “A woman has been charged with two counts of murder following an investigation by detectives and staff from our serious crime directorate.

“On Wednesday September 13, we received reports of concerns for the welfare of two people aged in their 70s.

“As a result of the extensive work carried out by a dedicated investigative team, our strong belief based on all the evidence available is that the two people in question are no longer alive.

“The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) is in agreement with this assessment.

“As a result of that work, we have been authorised by the CPS to charge Virginia McCullough, 35, of Pump Hill, Chelmsford, with two counts of murder.”

Detective Superintendent Rob Kirby, of the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate, said: “Although we have received authorisation to charge Virginia McCullough, this complex and in-depth investigation will be continuing at pace throughout the coming weeks and months.

“I would also reiterate that our continued belief is that this is an isolated incident and there is no threat to the wider Chelmsford or Essex public.

“Our thoughts today are with the families of everyone involved and I can assure them all avenues of inquiry will be pursued extensively to piece together the circumstances around this matter.”

Published: 17/09/2023 by Radio NewsHub