Woman appears in court charged with murdering parents as family describe 'shock'

19 September 2023 , 21:29

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A court sketch of Virginia McCullough (Image: PA)

A woman has been told she faces a double murder trial next year after being accused of killing her own parents, who had not been seen for a number of years.

Virginia McCullough appeared before Basildon Crown Court via video-link from HMP Peterborough charged with the murders of both her dad John and her mum Lois, who were both aged in their 70s. Wearing a grey prison-issue tracksuit and sporting a blonde bob haircut, she spoke only to confirm her identity.

The 35-year-old was remanded in custody, with no application for bail, as her family issued a statement about their shock over the deaths of John and Lois. In a statement released through police, the victims' family, who are being supported by specialist officers, said: “We are deeply shocked by their deaths and ask for privacy at this difficult time.”

Lois and John McCullough (PA)

The defendant, of Pump Hill, Chelmsford, Essex, is accused of killing the pair between August 21, 2018, and September 15, 2023. She was told she faces a plea hearing on Friday, December 1 and a two-week trial has been planned to begin on Monday, May 13. Essex Police previously said it received reports of concern for the well-being of two people aged in their 70s on Wednesday, September 13.

The force said it began an investigation and that detectives later found human remains at an address in Pump Hill, Chelmsford. Detective superintendent Rob Kirby, of the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate, said on Monday: “This continues to be an incredibly complex investigation. Our work will continue throughout the coming days as our specialist officers and staff continue to piece together all elements of this matter.

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“Officers will carry out work at addresses in Pump Hill throughout the coming days. I would continue to urge against speculation as these inquiries continue. A family is grieving the loss of two relatives and officers are supporting them.”

Kelly-Ann Mills