A man has appeared in the court accused of the Bijlmoord on a woman, while the police keep hunting the missing murder weapon.
Donald Excelle, 48, appeared today before Lewes Crown Court accused of the murder of Rita Lambourne, 58, who was discovered on a deadly injured just after 10 p.m. on 12 February at home in Bexhill, East Sussex.
The police said she had sustained catastrophic injuries and, despite the efforts of attending emergency services, death was confirmed on the spot.
Gray-Haired Excells wore a gray sweatshirt and pants and only spoke to confirm his name during the hearing of ten minutes.
The Sussex police still ask residents in Bexhill and the surrounding areas to help the search for a weapon by checking baking, gardens and other outdoor spaces.
They also hope to find a navy blue North Face backpack that they think they may have been used during the murder.
Detective -Head inspector Alex Campbell of the Sussex police said it had been a 'extremely disturbing incident, not least for the family and friends of Rita but also the broader community'.
Donald Excells, 48, (photo) appeared for Lewes Crown Court today accused of the murder of Rita Lambourne
Rita Lambourne, 58, (photo) was found dead in her own house on the evening of 12 February
The Sussex police mainly want to find a navy blue north wall bag
“I want to thank the public for their patience and understanding, while our officers have established questions in the area,” he added.
“Our officers stay on a patrol for reassurance, and in the meantime I would still encourage everyone who can help us with our research to come forward and contact us.”
In a statement, Mrs. Lambourne's family described her as a “loved member of the community” who was worn by her family and friends. “
“We would be extremely grateful for all the information that can be offered, and want to ask privacy in this difficult time,” they added
A 39-year-old woman from Bexhill who was arrested on suspicion of murder, and a 32-year-old man from Bexhill arrested on suspicion of helping a perpetrator, was both released without further action.
In the meantime, Excells has been taken in pre -trial detention and will introduce a plea for the charge for murder in May, with a test date for August this year.
