Man accused of rape and murder of Louisa Dunne

A 92-year-old man is accused of raping and murdering 75-year-old Louisa Dunne.

Ryland Headley, of Clarence Road, Ipswich, was charged by detectives overnight and will appear at Bristol Magistrates’ Court via video link this morning (Wednesday, November 20).

Louisa’s body was found by a neighbor at her home in Britannia Road, Easton, Bristol, on Wednesday 28 June 1967.

Detective Constable Dave Marchant said: “This development marks an extremely important period in this investigation.

“The criminal case is currently ongoing; It is important to emphasize that the defendant has the right to a fair trial. Any speculation or misinformation regarding the circumstances of this case has the potential to harm ongoing litigation.

“We have informed Louisa’s family of this charging decision and a specialist liaison officer will continue to support them in the coming days, weeks and months.”