The tragic and harrowing story behind one of Essex Police’s most complex murder investigations is the subject of a new two-part ITV true-crime documentary titled Essex Millionaire Murders. The programme explores the chilling events surrounding the deaths of Carol and Stephen Baxter, a wealthy couple found dead in their West Mersea home on 9 April 2023.
Airing on ITV1 at 9pm on Monday 28 April and Tuesday 29 April, the documentary follows Essex Police’s meticulous investigation, which ultimately led to the conviction of family friend Luke D’Wit—now serving a life sentence with a minimum term of 37 years.
The couple’s deaths initially appeared to be peaceful, but a deeper probe revealed a calculated and deeply manipulative campaign of deception by D’Wit, who posed as a doctor and coerced the couple into consuming a so-called “liver cleanse.” The concoction was laced with fentanyl, a powerful opioid that killed both victims. The pair were discovered by their daughter, Ellena, seated in armchairs in their home.
The ITV documentary, produced by Candour, features exclusive interviews with key Essex Police personnel including Detective Inspector Lydia George, the Senior Investigating Officer on the case, and Detective Constables Kerry Turner, Emily Larkin, and Reuben Brame, each of whom played critical roles in unravelling the layers of deceit woven by D’Wit.
D’Wit, described in court as a “pathological liar,” maintained control over the Baxters for years by creating fake personas and manipulating their trust. DI George said after sentencing:
“Luke D’Wit took away everything Carol and Stephen should have had – a retirement filled with love, family, and joy. His actions were not only cruel and calculated, but also deeply disturbing in their level of deception and control.”
The documentary also features Ellena Baxter and Tracy Ayling KC, who led the prosecution at Chelmsford Crown Court. Their accounts provide a personal and emotional look into the tragedy that shook a family and a community.
In conjunction with the documentary’s release, Essex Police is working with the charity Hourglass, the UK’s only organisation dedicated to the protection of older adults from abuse. The force hopes to raise awareness about elder abuse, especially when it is carried out by someone in a position of trust.
“Carol and Stephen were unaware of the extent of the abuse they were suffering,” said a police spokesperson. “Sadly, their story is not unique. We hope this documentary raises awareness and gives others the courage to seek help.”
For support or to report elder abuse, contact Hourglass or Essex Police. If you are affected by any of the issues in this programme, help is available.
Essex Millionaire Murders
Part 1: Monday 28 April, 9pm
Part 2: Tuesday 29 April, 9pm
Channel: ITV1
