Skip to content

Man, 92, to go on trial for 1967 rape and murder case

PA Media Court sketch of Ryland Headley who has receding white hair and facial hair and is wearing a brown jacket.PA Media
Ryland Headley appeared via video link at Bristol Magistrates' Court on Wednesday

A 92-year-old man will go on trial next year after being charged with the rape and murder of an elderly woman 57 years ago.

Louisa Dunne, 75, was found strangled on her living room floor by a neighbour on Brittania Road in Easton, Bristol, on 28 June 1967.

Ryland Headley, of Clarence Road, Ipswich, was charged by Avon and Somerset Police on Wednesday, following a further forensic examination of some items.

His trial, on 16 June, will take place before a High Court judge and is expected to last up to three weeks.

Avon & Somerset Police Unclear, sepia photo of a woman smiling, wearing a brimmed hat and coatAvon & Somerset Police
Louisa Dunne was found dead in her home in 1967

Mr Headley, who was remanded into custody, is accused of the rape and murder of Ms Dunne on dates between June 26 and 29 1967.

A plea and trial preparation hearing was fixed for 14 February.

No application for bail was made.

Follow BBC Bristol on Facebook, X and Instagram. Send your story ideas to us on email or via WhatsApp on 0800 313 4630.

More on this story
Related internet links