Inquest Hears Details of Fatal Shooting of Convicted Stalker Armed with Crossbow
A convicted stalker who was armed with a crossbow was shot in the neck and chest by police, an inquest has heard.
Bryce Hodgson was shot dead by armed officers on January 30 after he broke into a home on Bywater Place, Surrey Quays.
On Wednesday (February 14) an inquest into the 30-year-old’s death opened at Southwark Coroner’s Court.
The court heard that Hodgson had gained entrance to the property armed with a crossbow and other weapons.
Senior Coroner Dr Julian Morris said: “He had entered Bywater Place armed with various weapons, including a crossbow.
“Police were called to the scene and, when he exhibited some threatening behaviour, armed response units were called and subsequently shots were fired.
“He was pronounced dead at the scene.”
A provisional post-mortem examination report found Hodgson died from gunshot wounds to his neck and chest.
The Independent Office of Police Conduct (IOPC) is currently investigating the incident and Harriet Griffiths, lead investigator on the case, said: “Police units attended but were unable to detain him and they were shortly followed by their firearms colleagues, who, as you know, fired shots.”
The inquest heard that Hodgson, originally from Sheffield, was single and working in IT at the time of his death, and his last known address was in south-east London.
The hearing was adjourned for the IOPC to continue its investigation.
M4 Closed in Wiltshire Following Collision: Expect Delays
A collision on the M4 westbound in Wiltshire has led to the closure of the motorway between junction 16 (Swindon) and junction 17 (Chippenham). [block_2] The incident, which involved a single car leaving the carriageway, has prompted emergency services, including Wiltshire Police and National Highways Traffic Officers, to attend the scene.
Man Jailed for Sandown Assault, Leaving Victim with Fractured Eye Socket
A man has been sentenced to five years in prison after a brutal assault in Sandown left another man with a fractured eye socket. [block_2] Paul Bishton, 32, carried out the vicious attack on the evening of December 27, 2021, at a shared accommodation block in Fort Street. The incident unfolded when Bishton invited a […]
Meridian Centre’s Significant Update: Transition from Co-op to Morrisons
In a comprehensive February 2024 update provided by Councillor Chris Collier, significant developments are unfolding at the Meridian Centre, involving a key transition from The Co-operative to Morrisons. This move marks a pivotal moment for the local community and aims to enhance the shopping and facility access experience for residents.
Transition and Improvements Ahead
The Co-operative is set to hand over control of the Meridian Centre to Morrisons on February 28, initiating a new chapter for the site. Morrisons has appointed an agent responsible for overseeing the cleaning and security of the premises, ensuring a seamless transition and maintaining the high standards expected by the community.
Enhanced Access and Safety Measures
A notable change for residents will be the improved accessibility to the Council offices and ESCC library facilities. Morrisons has committed to ensuring the back carpark entrance remains accessible, particularly benefiting those arriving by bus to the library, eliminating the need for a lengthy detour around the building. Additionally, Morrisons pledges to address the current concerns regarding inadequate lighting around the grounds, promising a well-lit environment to enhance safety and convenience for all visitors.
Eco-Conscious Building Work
Acknowledging environmental concerns, Morrisons has re-phased their building works to protect local wildlife, particularly nesting birds. The company is in the process of finalizing new plans with contractors, demonstrating their commitment to ecological preservation amidst development efforts.
Interim Shopping Solutions
As the store undergoes renovation, Morrisons is exploring interim shopping solutions to minimize disruption for residents. Negotiations with two bus operators are underway to introduce a temporary bus service, and a click-and-collect service will soon be operational at the current site, allowing residents to order online and collect their groceries locally.
Direct Communication Channel for Residents
Addressing the need for direct communication between Morrisons and the residents, Cllr Collier has advocated for a more straightforward contact method. Morrisons has promised to update the Meridian Centre’s website with a Frequently Asked Questions section and direct contact options for further inquiries, ensuring residents have immediate access to information and support.
This series of updates from Morrisons, facilitated by Cllr Chris Collier, reflects a significant effort to maintain community engagement and transparency as the Meridian Centre transitions into a new phase. Residents can look forward to enhanced access, improved safety, and continued shopping services, all while ensuring environmental considerations are prioritised.
Read more on www.Sussex.News
Major Delays on M20 After Collision Involves HGV and Car, Causes Large Diesel Spill
Motorists on the M20 faced significant delays today following a collision between a heavy goods vehicle (HGV) and a car, resulting in a large diesel spill and extensive damage to the carriageway. The incident, which occurred around 1:25 AM on Wednesday, led to traffic being halted for over three hours between junctions 10 and 11. […]
Appeal for Information: Missing Teenager from Gillingham
Kent Police has launched an appeal for information regarding the disappearance of a teenage girl from Gillingham, raising concerns for her well-being. [block_2] Fifteen-year-old Shania Stone was last seen in the vicinity of Jeffery Street at approximately 7:45 pm on Tuesday, February 13, 2024.
Serious Collision Closes Eastbound M20 Motorway in Kent after 200 litres of Fuel damages carriageway
A serious collision involving a car and a lorry has led to the closure of the eastbound carriageway of the M20 in Kent, causing significant disruption to motorists in the area. [block_2] There is 200 litres of fuel that has leaked from a tank of the HGV and damaged the carriageways and this will need […]
Shoezone Announces Closure of Inverness Branch in Retail Crisis
In a move that has disappointed locals, high-street retailer Shoezone has revealed plans to close its outlet in Inverness, leaving shoppers in the area facing considerable inconvenience. [block_2] The closure announcement comes as Shoezone continues to navigate challenges in the retail landscape, with the Inverness branch set to join 13 other stores shuttered by the […]
2008 Grey Range Rover Stolen, Public Urged to Report Sightings
Police are seeking assistance from the public in locating a stolen vehicle reported missing. The vehicle in question, a grey 2008 Range Rover, was taken from a location in West Chiltington at around 4:50 pm on January 19.
PC Steve Lambeth, an officer with the Roads Policing Unit (RPU), highlighted that the vehicle is distinctive due to its unique spoiler and exhaust trims at the rear. It is also suspected to be using cloned registration plates and may currently be in the areas of Chichester, Walberton, Barnham, Slindon, or Petworth.
PC Lambeth urges the public to be on the lookout for the vehicle, especially if they notice a car that matches the description in a local street or car park where it does not normally belong.
The public is encouraged to report any relevant information to Sussex Police, either online or by calling 101, and reference the case number 907 of January 19.
Read more on www.Sussex.News
A man who sexually assaulted two girls over a number of years has been jailed for over two decades.
Bartosz Bella, 40, repeatedly abused and manipulated his two victims aged 12 and 16 for a period of four years. [block_2] The court heard how Bella controlled and forced his victims to engage in sexual acts with him in return for gifts and would beat them if they did not do what he demanded.
A Birmingham Children’s Hospital manager has been sentenced to five years in prison for sexually assaulting a woman
Ross Wheeler, 57, entered the adult victim’s bedroom against her wishes, assaulting her as she slept. [block_2] Despite later apologising via WhatsApp, he denied wrongdoing, claiming the victim had ‘encouraged’ him.