A 48-year-old man has been charged with the murder of a woman in her home in Bexhill, East Sussex, after what police have described as a violent axe attack.
Victim Identified
The victim, Rita Lambourne, 58, was found dead at her home in Bayencourt South just after 10:00 PM on Wednesday, 12 February. Sussex Police have since confirmed that she suffered fatal injuries in what they are treating as a targeted attack.
Suspect Charged
On Tuesday, Donald Excell, 48, of Seabourne Road, Bexhill, was charged with Ms Lambourne’s murder. Police believe Excell used an axe to carry out the killing. However, the suspected weapon has not yet been recovered.
Ongoing Investigation & Public Appeal
Authorities are now urging residents in Bexhill to check their bins, gardens, and outside spaces for a missing axe and a navy blue The North Face rucksack, which they believe could be key to the investigation.
Det Ch Insp Alex Campbell stated:
“This has been a hugely distressing incident, not least for the family and friends of Rita but also the wider community. I’d like to thank the public for their patience and understanding while our officers have conducted enquiries in the local area.”
Other Arrests & Court Appearance
Two other individuals were arrested in connection with the investigation:
- A 39-year-old woman was arrested on suspicion of murder.
- A 32-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender.
Both individuals have since been released with no further action.
Donald Excell is due to appear before Brighton Magistrates’ Court today (Tuesday, 18 February).
How to Help
Anyone with information is urged to contact Sussex Police via:
? 101, quoting Operation Bayencourt
? Crimestoppers (Anonymous): 0800 555 111
This is a developing story, and updates will follow as more details emerge.
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