Chelmsford: Remains of two people discovered in murder investigation

UPDATE: Monday 18 September

Detectives investigating the deaths of a man and a woman in Chelmsford are in a position to confirm the remains of two people have been located.

On Wednesday 13 September, we received reports of concerns for the welfare of two people aged in their 70s.

This led officers to an address in Pump Hill, Chelmsford, where investigative work is ongoing.

As a result of the extensive work carried out by a dedicated team, we have recovered the remains of two people from the address.

Although formal identification is yet to take place, Essex Police believe these to be the remains of John McCullough, and Lois McCullough, both aged in their 70s.

As part of work connected to this investigation, officers are continuing to search addresses in and around Pump Hill.

This policing presence is expected to continue for the coming days.

The family of John and Lois, who are being supported by specialist officers, have said:

“We are deeply shocked by their deaths and ask for privacy at this difficult time.”

Virginia McCullough, 35, of Pump Hill, Chelmsford, is charged with their murder.

She appeared at Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court on Monday 18 September and was remanded in custody until a further hearing at Basildon Crown Court on Tuesday 19 September.

Complex investigation continues

Detective Superintendent Rob Kirby, of the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate, said:

“This continues to be an incredibly complex investigation.
“Our work will continue throughout the coming days, as our specialist officers and staff continue to piece together all elements of this matter.
“Officers will carry out work at addresses in and around Pump Hill throughout the coming days.
“I would continue to urge against speculation as these enquiries continue.
“A family is grieving the loss of two relatives and officers are supporting them.”

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UPDATE: Sunday 17 September

A woman has been charged with two counts of murder following an investigation by detectives and staff from our serious crime directorate.

On Wednesday 13 September, we received reports of concerns for the welfare of two people aged in their 70s.

As a result of the extensive work carried out by a dedicated investigative team, our strong belief based on all the evidence available is that the two people in question are no longer alive. The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) is in agreement with this assessment.

As a result of that work, we have been authorised by the CPS to charge Virginia McCullough, 35, of Pump Hill, Chelmsford, with two counts of murder.

She is due to appear at Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court tomorrow, Monday 18 September.

'Complex and in-depth investigation'

Detective Superintendent Rob Kirby, of the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate, said:

“Although we have received authorisation to charge Virginia McCullough, this complex and in-depth investigation will be continuing at pace throughout the coming weeks and months.
“I would also reiterate that our continued to belief is that this is an isolated incident and there is no threat to the wider Chelmsford or Essex public.
“Our thoughts today are with the families of everyone involved and I can assure them, all avenues of enquiry will be pursued extensively to piece together the circumstances around this matter.”

Friday 15 September

Detectives are questioning a woman arrested on suspicion of murder after reports of concern for the welfare of two people.

A 35-year-old woman, from Chelmsford, remains in custody this evening after officers attended an address in Pump Hill, Great Baddow, shortly after midday.

This visit followed reports of concerns for the welfare of two people and we remain on scene while our enquiries continue.

Our investigation is at an early stage, but detectives are making fast progress as they look to establish the circumstances of this matter.

'Isolated matter'

Detective Superintendent Rob Kirby, of Essex and Kent Serious Crime Directorate, said:

“Our enquiries are ongoing, and it would be wrong to speculate while we work to build a clear picture.
“However, I can emphasise at this stage that we know this is very much an isolated matter and there is no wider risk or threat to the public in Chelmsford."