A 92-year-old man has been charged with murder and rape after a woman was found strangled to death in her own home 57 years ago.
Ryland Headley, of Ipswich, was arrested on Tuesday morning in connection with the killing of 75-year-old Louisa Dunne, who was found dead by a neighbour in the Easton area of Bristol in 1967.
Headley appeared before Bristol magistrates’ court via video link from a police station on Wednesday morning.
Accompanied by his solicitor, he was not asked to enter pleas to the two charges against him.
He spoke only to confirm his name, date of birth and address, and that he understood the hearing was taking place as if he was physically present in court.
Lynne Matthews, the district judge, told the defendant: “There are two charges which are alleged against you. The first is that between the 26th and 29th of June 1967 in Easton, Bristol, you murdered Louisa Dunne.
“The second allegation is that between the same dates in Bristol, you raped Louisa Dunne, a woman.”
The judge added: “The two matters are going to be sent to the crown court. A hearing at Bristol Crown Court will be tomorrow, at or about 10am.
“I have no power to consider the question of your bail, and therefore you will be remanded in custody until tomorrow.”
Dunne’s cause of death was recorded as strangulation and asphyxiation.
Det Insp Dave Marchant said: “This development marks a hugely significant moment in this investigation. Now criminal proceedings are under way it’s important to stress the defendant has the right to a fair trial.
“Any speculation or misinformation on the circumstances of this case has the potential to prejudice these ongoing proceedings.
“We’ve updated Louisa’s family about this charging decision and a specialist liaison officer will continue to support them in the coming days, weeks and months.”
