A man is due to appear in court today (Monday 27th June 2022) following the death of a man in Charfield on Friday night.
Grant Bradley, 46, of Blackwell Street, Kidderminster, has been charged with the murder of Marcus Dunkerton, 40, of Thames Close, Charfield. He is also charged with possession of an offensive weapon.
Police and ambulance crews were called to Mr Dunkerton’s home just before 11pm on Friday, where they found a man seriously injured. Sadly, Mr Dunkerton could not be saved and died at the scene.
Bradley was arrested just after 11.30pm.
A post mortem examination has found that Mr Dunkerton was stabbed several times, with one wound proving fatal.
Bradley is detained in police custody pending an appearance before Bristol Magistrates Court today (Monday 27th June).
Detective chief inspector Phil Walker of the Major Crime Investigation Team is heading the enquiry. He said:
“Our hearts go out to Marcus’s family as they face such a devastating loss. They are being supported by specially-trained officers and have asked for privacy in their grief.”
“We continue to gather evidence to help us understand what has happened. There are reports of an earlier incident involving the two men at the Railway Tavern in Wotton Road, Charfield [map]. I’d ask anyone who was at the pub between 9pm and 11pm on Friday night to get in touch, if they haven’t yet spoken with officers.”
“We’d also like to hear from anyone who saw or has CCTV, dashcam or doorbell footage of either man walking from the pub to Thames Close [map], or Bradley leaving that address.”
Anyone with information is asked to call 101 and give the call handler the reference number 5222150363, or complete an online appeals form.
Alternatively, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers 100 percent anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via their anonymous online form. No personal details are taken, information cannot be traced or recorded and you will not go to court or have to speak to police when contacting Crimestoppers.
A police spokesperson said:
“You’ll continue to see an increased police presence in the village while officers carry out house to house and other enquiries. We don’t believe there is a risk to the wider community, but if you have any concerns please speak to one of the uniformed neighbourhood officers who will be in the area.”
Case sent to crown court
UPDATE added 27th June 2022.
Grant Bradley, 46, of Blackwell Street, Kidderminster, appeared before Bristol Magistrates’ Court today, Monday 27th June, charged with murder and possession of an offensive weapon. He was remanded in custody pending an appearance at Bristol Crown Court on Wednesday 29th June.
Family tribute
UPDATE added 27th June 2022.
The family of Marcus Dunkerton have issued a tribute following his death on Friday 24th June.
His partner, parents and other family members said:
“No words will ever be able to express the deep sadness and loss that we feel as a family.”
“Marcus was a much-loved son, brother, partner, father, step-father, uncle and son-in-law who was very much loved by us all.”
“He was an excellent father. We are heartbroken. He will leave a huge hole in our lives and will be greatly missed. We ask that people respect our privacy at what continues to be a very difficult time for ourselves and all those who knew Marcus.”
