Coventry murder suspect Anthony Russell arrested in Staffordshire - The Rugby Observer

Coventry murder suspect Anthony Russell arrested in Staffordshire

Rugby Editorial 30th Oct, 2020 Updated: 30th Oct, 2020   0

POLICE have this morning arrested Coventry murder suspect Anthony Russell.

Officers confirmed a man tracked down to a Staffordshire village this morning is now in custody.

A mass manhunt was launched for the 38-year-old after the bodies of Julia Williams and her son David were discovered at two separate flats in Coventry earlier this week.

Russell was linked to a third body found in Newbold Comyn near Leamington.




The victim has now been formally identified as 31-year-old Nichola McGregor from Leamington.

Officers on patrol discovered the suspect in a red Ford C-Max car, stolen in a car-jacking in Leamington on Wednesday afternoon, in a country lane in the village of Rolleston-on-Dove around 4am.


He has been arrested on suspicion of murder and robbery in relation to the car.

He will be questioned later today.

West Midlands Police Assistant Ch Cons Mark Payne said: “The deaths of three people in the Midlands region this week have been shocking and devastating for the families involved.

“Our thoughts remain with them as they come to terms with the tragic circumstances of their deaths.

“We are grateful to everyone who has assisted with our appeals for information, but although we have a suspect in custody, our investigation must now establish exactly what has happened.”

A Warwickshire Police spokesperson said: “Following the death of a woman in Leamington yesterday, we continue to work closely with our colleagues at West Midlands Police and can confirm that wanted man Anthony Russell was located and arrested in Staffordshire in the early hours of this morning.

“We appreciate that this incident has been extremely concerning to the local community, and want to reassure residents that an extensive investigation is underway.

“The public can expect to see a heightened police presence over the coming days as our officers conduct enquiries and provide reassurance, and we will continue to share any updates on our social media channels.

“Our thoughts continue to remain with the woman’s family and friends at this difficult time.”

Police are still seeking information as they piece together exactly what happened.

Anyone who has not yet spoken to police but has information that might help should call 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

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