Police find human remains during investigation into death of elderly couple
Police investigating the deaths of an elderly man and woman in Chelmsford have found human remains.
Virginia McCullough, understood to be the daughter of John and Lois McCullough, is accused of murdering the couple at some point in the past five years.
The 35-year-old was not asked to enter pleas during a two-minute hearing at Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court earlier today.
She has been remanded in custody ahead of a further hearing at Basildon Crown Court tomorrow.
Essex Police said the remains were recovered from an address in Pump Hill in the town.
While formal identification is yet to take place, officers said they believed they are the remains of the couple, who were both aged in their seventies.
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.’
A statement from the police said locals should expect officers to remain in the area for the next few days, as they continue to search addresses in and around Pump Hill.
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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