A woman has been charged with two counts of murder in connection with an ongoing investigation by detectives and members of the serious crime directorate.

The investigation commenced on Wednesday, September 13, 2023, after authorities received reports expressing concerns for the welfare of two individuals, both aged in their 70s.

Following a thorough and comprehensive inquiry conducted by a dedicated investigative team, it is the prevailing belief, based on the entirety of available evidence, that the two individuals in question are no longer alive. The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) concurs with this assessment.

As a consequence of these findings, Virginia McCullough, aged 35, residing at Pump Hill in Chelmsford, has been formally charged with two counts of murder. She is scheduled to make her initial court appearance at Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court on Monday, September 18, 2023.

Detective Superintendent Rob Kirby, heading the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate, commented on the development: “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.”

He further added, “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 that all avenues of inquiry will be pursued extensively to piece together the circumstances surrounding this matter.”