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Post-mortem results inconclusive in Anita Rose murder investigation

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Police are continuing to investigate the death of Anita Rose in Brantham as a murder after a post-mortem examination failed to establish a cause of death.

What's new: Police have confirmed that a post-mortem examination failed to establish a cause of death. Detectives are pursuing all lines of enquiry to understand the circumstances surrounding Anita's death while supporting her family and addressing community concerns.

Key details:

  • A Home Office post-mortem was conducted on Monday, 29 July

  • Further tests are required to determine the cause of death

  • Anita's family is being supported by specialist officers

  • Police will conduct anniversary checks in Rectory Lane and on train services between Ipswich and Manningtree on Wednesday, 31 July

What they're saying: Detective Superintendent Mike Brown said, "We completely understand and empathise with the concern some members of the Brantham community have expressed about the fact a male who has been arrested on suspicion of murder was subsequently bailed."

He added, "It is important to understand that at times it may be necessary to make arrests in serious and complex investigations based on the evidence available at that time to fully understand the role individuals may have played in any offences identified."

Why it matters: The investigation remains ongoing, with police seeking information from the public to help solve the case.

How to help: Anyone with information is urged to contact Suffolk police, quoting reference 37/41580/24. Options include:

The bottom line: Police are working to reassure the community while pursuing all avenues to identify those responsible for Anita Rose's death.

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Police granted extra time to question teenager suspected of murdering Billy McNicholl

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Detectives investigating the death of William "Billy" McNicholl have been granted an additional 24 hours to question a teenage murder suspect. The extension was approved by Ipswich Magistrates' Court on Thursday 23 January.

Why it matters: The extension gives detectives crucial additional time to question the suspect in what has become a complex murder investigation involving multiple suspects.

The big picture: McNicholl, 63, known as Billy, was found dead at his Hawthorn Drive home on 1 January. A post-mortem examination revealed he died from head injuries and a stab wound.

William "Billy" McNicholl and his dog
William "Billy" McNicholl and his dog

Latest developments:

  • After an initial 12-hour superintendent's extension, officers secured a warrant for a further 24 hours of questioning time.

  • The additional detention period will end on Friday 24 January.

  • The 17-year-old suspect has been held at Martlesham Police Investigation Centre since his arrest on Wednesday.

  • A woman in her 50s, previously arrested on suspicion of murder, remains on bail until 9 April.

Bottom line: Suffolk Constabulary's Major Investigation Team continues to appeal for witnesses. Anyone with information should contact police quoting reference 37/162/25, either through their Major Incident Portal or by calling 101.

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