Two Teenagers appear in court over Christchurch murder

Two teenage boys have been charged following the death of a man in Christchurch at the turn of the new year.

On Tuesday 4^th January, at 7:53pm, Dorset Police received a report expressing concern for the occupant in Heath Road, Christchurch. Officers were dispatched and found the body of the occupant, Edward Reeve, 35.

Two 16-year-old boys from Christchurch and Bournemouth have been charged with murder and appeared at Poole Magistrates Court today.

They were remanded in custody and are set to appear in Winchester Crown Court on January 13th.

On January 10^th, Detective Inspector Simon Huxter of Dorset Police’s Major Crime Investigation Team, spoke further about the case and extended his sympathies to the family of the deceased.

“Following a detailed and fast-moving investigation, we have consulted with the Crown Prosecution Service, which has authorised the charges.

“The family of Edward Reeve has been updated with this development and our thoughts remain with them at this truly awful time.

“This matter is now subject to a court process and as is typical in these circumstances, it would be entirely inappropriate for Dorset Police to comment further. It is important that the justice system is allowed to follow its course.”

He made a statement to remind the public that this matter is now the subject of active court proceedings and said it was important to stress that there should be no commentary or sharing of information online or on social media that could potentially prejudice these proceedings.

He added: “I would also like to highlight to members of the public that automatic court restrictions will apply to anyone under the age of 18, meaning their name should not be published, which would include any content on social media.

“I am keen to reiterate my thanks to the public for their support following the appeals and the information they have provided to assist our enquiries. The investigation continues so please do contact us if you believe you have information that could assist.”

Anyone with information, images or footage relevant to the investigation to submit it via the UK Police Major Incident Public Portal at https://mipp.police.uk/operation/55HQ21M75-PO1