A retired police officer has been arrested and charged with the murder of his 83-year-old wife. Elizabeth Richings, who lived in Bournemouth with her husband Grenville Richings, died at the £500,000 property just off Wick Lane in the Southbourne area of the seaside resort on June 3.
Grenville, who is also 83, was taken to hospital to be treated following the incident and has now been charged with his wife’s murder. He is due to appear at Poole Magistrates’ Court today.
Police were called to the Richings household earlier in June, when concerns for Elizabeth began to circulate.
The couple were stalwarts of the community, having been popular members of the Christchurch Priory congregation nearby.
Detective Inspector Mark Jenkins, of Dorset Police, said: “We are continuing to do all we can to support Elizabeth’s family and they have been informed of this latest development.
“This matter has been the subject of a detailed investigation and we have consulted with the Crown Prosecution Service, which has authorised the charge of murder.
“This case will now be the subject of active court proceedings and it is vital that the justice system is allowed to follow its course.
“It is important to stress that there should be no further commentary, publication or sharing of information in print, online or on social media that could potentially prejudice proceedings.”
