Short Reads

The Woodmancote Murders

Believed the be tipped over the edge by Covid-lockdown worries, he murdered the entire family and their dog.

Kelly and her children are being remembered by their loving family, who are raising funds for a memorial.

On the 29th of March 2020, police discovered the bodies of four family members: Kelly Fitzgibbons (40), Robert Needham (42), Ava Needham (4), and Lexi Needham (2) along with the body of their much-loved family dog, Bill.

The family, who lived in Woodmancote, Sussex, suffered gunshot wounds whilst inside their $600,000 country home. The large house was owned by and shared with Mr. Needham’s mother, who was not present during the killings.

A police investigation is “not seeking anyone else in connection with the matter” and it is believed that Robert Needham committed the crime and then turned his weapon upon himself. Gun ownership in the UK is uncommon and it’s unknown how or why Mr. Needham possessed a shotgun.

The coroner has confirmed that Kelly died from gunshot wounds to the head and neck, along with her two children who were also shot in the chest and head. The body of the family terrier, Bill, was also found in the home — he too had been shot.

It has been reported that Mr. Needham, a builder, was particularly stressed due to the Covid lockdown and the perceived threat it…