Man charged over death of pregnant woman and her unborn child

A 23-year-old man has been charged with the murder of a heavily pregnant woman in Harlow.



Tony McLernon of North Grove, Harlow, has been charged with the murder of Eystna Blunnie and child destruction in relation to the death of the unborn baby girl she was carrying.

Police were called just before 3am on Wednesday, June 27, 2012 following reports that a woman was lying injured on Howard Way.

Above: Eystna Blunnie

Eystna Blunnie was taken to Princess Alexandra Hospital but was pronounced dead a short time later.

A provisional post-mortem examination result showed that the 20-year-old from Halling Hill in the town died from multiple head and facial injuries. She was heavily pregnant and due to give birth to a baby girl in the next few days.

McLernon appeared at Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court on Saturday, June 30, 2012 and was remanded in court custody to appear at Chelmsford Crown Court on Tuesday, July 3, 2012.

Eystna's parents Kevin and Susan Blunnie have paid tribute to their daughter, describing her as 'a wonderful loving daughter, looking forward to the birth of her first child'.

In a statement they said: "Our daughter and granddaughter have been taken from us in such a tragic and horrific way.  We can't begin to explain how we feel.

"Eystna was a wonderful and loving daughter, looking forward to the birth of her first child.  Sadly this will no longer be.

"We hope that everyone will understand the sadness in our hearts and let us mourn our sadness of the passing of our loved ones.  We would also like to thank everyone for their support to our family at this very sad time."

Updated: Saturday, June 30, 2012