A man has been charged with murder as part of an ongoing investigation into the deaths of a married couple on Mersea Island near Colchester. The incident came to light when the ambulance service alerted the police to concerns for the welfare of two individuals at a residence on Victory Road on Sunday, April 9, at approximately 1:30 pm.

Upon arrival, officers sadly discovered the bodies of Stephen Baxter, 61, and Carol Baxter, 64. Initially, their deaths were considered unexpected and non-suspicious. Police began working to establish the circumstances surrounding the tragic event.

Following an extensive investigation and toxicology analysis, two men and one woman were arrested on Thursday, July 6, to gather comprehensive accounts from them. While a woman and a man have been released on bail pending further inquiries, Luke D’Wit, 33, of Churchfields, West Mersea, Colchester, has been charged with two counts of murder, one count of possession of a Class A drug, and one count of theft.

D’Wit is scheduled to appear in Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court today, July 8.

Detective Inspector Lydia George, leading the investigation, described the charges as a significant development in piecing together the circumstances surrounding the deaths of Carol and Stephen. She expressed gratitude to everyone who has come forward to provide information throughout the complex investigation.

The investigation continues as authorities seek to uncover the full details and motive behind the tragic incident.