Tragedy in Snowdown: Woman Found Dead After Dog Walk
Julia, 53, Found Dead Near Ackholt Wood
Julia, 53, was discovered dead next to Ackholt Wood in Snowdown at around 4pm on Tuesday 27 April 2021. She had been working from home before heading out to walk her Jack Russell, Toby, in the Aylesham Road area.
A post-mortem confirmed she died from serious head injuries.
Murder Charge Launched Against Local Man
On Monday 10 May 2021, the Crown Prosecution Service charged 21-year-old Callum Wheeler from Aylesham with Julia’s murder. He appeared at Medway Magistrates Court the next day and was remanded in custody. Wheeler is due to face Maidstone Crown Court on Thursday 13 May 2021.
Reconstruction of Final Walk
Two weeks after Julia’s death, detectives staged a reconstruction of her last known movements. An actress, dressed in Julia’s clothes, retraced the route Julia took while walking Toby.
Julia left her Snowdown home shortly after 2pm on 27 April. She is believed to have taken a footpath behind her house through bushes and woodland, emerging into a field near Aylesham Road. She and her dog walked around the field’s perimeter before heading towards Ackholt Wood—where police believe the attack happened.
Julia was found dead near the woodland around 4pm that afternoon.
Police Appeal for Information
Assistant Chief Constable Tom Richards said: “I want to thank everyone who has come forward so far, but it’s vital anyone with information steps up. Even the smallest detail could crack this case.”
“We held the reconstruction hoping it might jog someone’s memory. The community’s support has been amazing, and we’re grateful for their patience as we push this investigation forward.”
Kent Police are urging anyone with information, CCTV, or dashcam footage to get in touch on 0800 0514 526, via 101, or online at https://mipp.police.uk/operation/4601020121F07-PO1.
