AN economics lecturer has denied murdering his wife in Colchester.

Ertan Ersoy, 50, was charged with murder after the death of university lecturer Antonella Castelvedere on June 1.

Antonella, an English literature lecturer at the University of Suffolk, was found with fatal injuries in her home in Wickham Road.

Police officers called to the scene found Ersoy, of Wickham Road, was also injured and he was taken to hospital.

Gazette: Incident - the scene in Wickham RoadIncident - the scene in Wickham Road (Image: Newsquest)

The 50-year-old was subsequently charged with murdering his 52-year-old wife.

An inquest opening at Essex Coroners Court recorded Antonella’s provisional cause of death as a “stab wound to the neck”.

Ersoy, a guest economics lecturer at the University of Suffolk, appeared at Chelmsford Crown Court today and denied the offence.

Judge Christopher Morgan pencilled in a provisional trial date to take place from January 9, 2023.

Gazette: Lecturer - Antonella Castelvedere - Picture: University of SuffolkLecturer - Antonella Castelvedere - Picture: University of Suffolk (Image: University of Suffolk)

Prosecutor Marc Brown revealed key evidence in the case is expected to be Ersoy’s mobile phone and laptop.

However, this has required a “complex investigation” due to the contents mostly being written in a foreign language.

A pathologist and blood expert are also expected to be called to give evidence when the case reaches trial.

In a statement following Antonella’s death, a University of Suffolk spokesman said she was a “well-liked” member of staff.

Gazette: Police - officers remained at the scene during the days followingPolice - officers remained at the scene during the days following (Image: Newsquest)

He said: “The University of Suffolk community is deeply saddened by the untimely death of Dr Antonella Castelvedere.

“Antonella was a widely respected and well-liked member of staff at the university where she was an outstanding academic in English and critical writing.

“Our thoughts are with her family at this very difficult time.”

The university’s website adds Dr Castelvedere had a “long experience” in enhancing student experiences through her academic leadership, innovative curriculum design and professional partnerships.

The Italian press reports the 52-year-old hails from Brescia, a city in northern Italy, and leaves behind a young daughter.

A case management hearing will be held on November 21 ahead of the trial.