Greenstead murder victim suffered 'multiple' stab wounds at home

A murder investigation was launched after Gordon McGhee's body was found at a property in Forest Road, Greenstead, on Wednesday, August 22.

Danny Bostock, 32, of Berberis Walk, Colchester, was later charged with murder and attempted arson with intent to endanger life.

Speaking at Chelmsford Coroner's Court this morning, coroner's officer Andre Kimche said: "The 52-year-old was found with multiple stab wounds, the police are investigating and someone has been charged.

"A provisional cause of death has been given as 1A - haemorrhage and 1B - multiple stab wounds."

Area Coroner Eleanor McGann adjourned the inquest indefinitely pending the result of the court proceedings.

She said: "I am going to open the inquest under schedule one of the Coroners and Justice Act.

"This is because I am aware that the defendant has appeared before a magistrates' court charged with an offence.

"I am not announcing a date for the full inquest.

"It is possible there may never be an inquest and that will be reconsidered once we are aware of the result of the pending prosecution.

"The body is not for release at this time."

After his death, Mr McGhee's family paid tribute to the 52-year-old.

In a joint statement they said: "Gordon was a quiet, private man who was loved very much and will be greatly missed.

“We ask that we are left to grieve in peace at this sad time.”

Bostock appeared at Chelmsford on Wednesday, August 29, and a provisional trial date has been set for February next year.

Last week, Essex Police renewed their appeal for information and would like to talk to anyone who was in the areas of Forest Road, Hawthorne Avenue or Avon Way in Greenstead between 2am and 6am on Wednesday, August 22.

Those with information, dash cam or CCTV footage are asked to contact Stanway Major Crime Team on 101 or email scd.appeals.essex@essex.pnn.police.uk.

You can also contact Crimestoppers 100% anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at Crimestoppers-uk.org