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Man charged with murdering 79-year-old

Steve Huntley/BBC An estate made up of light brown terrace houses. In the foreground on a patch of grass is a sign which says Philip Road, leading to Percy WaySteve Huntley/BBC
Police were called to an address on Philip Road on Witham on 8 January

A man has been charged with murder following the death of a pensioner.

Essex Police said Thomas Collier, 79, was found with a suspected head injury at a home on Philip Road in Witham on 8 January, and later died in hospital.

Jimmy Collier, 41, of the same address, was charged with murder and appeared before magistrates on Friday.

Det Insp Richard Canning, senior investigating officer, said the force would "maintain a visible police presence" across Witham and there was no wider risk to the public.

Steve Huntley/BBC A view of the housing estate with a tree in the foregroundSteve Huntley/BBC
Police are urging the public not to speculate "while the court process gets underway"

"We've had a dedicated team of officers investigating this incident since it was first reported to us," he added.

"A grieving family coming to terms with the awful circumstances of this matter remain at the heart of our investigation.

"I would urge against speculation while the court process gets underway."

Police said Mr Collier was expected to appear at Chelmsford Crown Court on 20 January.

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