A MURDER investigation launched following the death of a woman has progressed rapidly this past week.
A huge emergency service presence was reported in Chapelford on Tuesday, with Cheshire Police subsequently launching a murder probe.
A youth was arrested and charged with her murder, and he has since made two appearances before the courts.
Here is everything we know and can say so far in relation to the investigation.
What happened?
At around 9.40am on Tuesday, Cheshire Police was called to reports of an incident at an address on Phoenix Place.
Officers and paramedics attended and found that a 48-year-old woman had been seriously assaulted outside her home.
Sadly, despite the best efforts of all those involved, the woman was pronounced dead at the scene.
In an update on Thursday, the identity of the deceased was confirmed as Chintzia McIntyre.
Has there been an arrest?
Detectives investigating the incident have confirmed that a youth has been arrested on suspicion of murder.
The 17-year-old boy arrested in connection to the incident is being held in police custody.
Has anyone been charged and appeared in court?
A 17-year-old boy has since been charged with the murder of Chintzia McIntyre.
He made a first appearance before Warrington Magistrates’ Court on Thursday in relation to the charge, appearing in the dock wearing a grey jumper and grey sweatpants.
The defendant confirmed his personal details to chair magistrate Alan Eyres when asked, but he was not asked to enter a plea.
He was remanded in youth detention to appeal before Liverpool Crown Court Friday for a bail determination hearing.
Appearing before the crown court via video link from HM Young Offender Institution Wetherby, no formal application was made for the youth’s bail.
A plea and pre-trial preparation hearing to be listed for November 17, with a trial date fixed for January 29, 2024.
All hearings in this case to be presided over by judge Andrew Menary, with a pre-trial review date also fixed for December 20.
He was again remanded in youth detention accommodation.
What did the judge say during the crown court hearing?
Before adjourning the case, judge Menary said: “This matter is listed before me in relation to this young defendant. He is 17 years old and is sent to this court charged with an offence of murder.
“At this stage, I have to consider the question of bail. My first consideration is the welfare of this young defendant given his age.
“No formal application for bail has been made on your behalf. You are therefore remanded in youth detention accommodation.”
Who is the person that has been charged?
The boy charged CANNOT be named or identified in any way at this stage due to legal reasons.
Cheshire Police wishes to remind readers that legal proceedings are now active, and it is crucial that people avoid sharing details or speculation online about this case, as it could prejudice the legal process.
What have residents said?
Residents reported seeing a huge police presence in the area yesterday morning, with at least seven police cars and vans spotted.
A blue and yellow forensics tent was soon erected at the scene, with paramedics and an air ambulance also dispatched to assist.
People living in the area reported police knocking on doors and visiting businesses asking residents for statements and doorbell camera footage.
How can I help if I think I have information?
As part the force’s enquiries, Cheshire Police says it would like to hear from anyone who was in the Phoenix Place area between 9.30am and 9.45am on the morning of the incident.
Detectives are also keen to speak to anyone who believes they may have witnessed the incident.
The same goes for anyone with any video or dashcam footage, which can be submitted via the Cheshire Police website.
What have police said?
On the day of the incident, DS Jon Betts, of Warrington Local Policing Unit, said: “I would like to reassure residents that this is believed to be an isolated incident and there is no risk to the wider community.
“There is currently an increased police presence in the local area, and I would urge anyone with any concerns to speak to an officer.”
How to contact police if you have information
Detectives investigating the murder are appealed for any information which could help the investigation.
Anyone with any information which could assist the investigation is asked to call Cheshire Police on 101, quoting IML 1632153.
Information can also be submitted by visiting cheshire.police.uk/police-forces/cheshire-constabulary/areas/cheshire/about-us/about-us/provide-more-information-about-an-appeal/
In addition, information can be provided anonymously by calling the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or visiting crimestoppers-uk.org
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article