Man charged with the rape and murder of Louisa Dunne

A 92-year-old man has been charged with the rape and murder of 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 20 November).  

Louisa’s body was found by a neighbour inside her home in Britannia Road in the Easton area of Bristol, on Wednesday 28 June, 1967. 

DI Dave Marchant said: “This development marks a hugely significant moment in this investigation.

“Now criminal proceedings are underway 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.”