A 15-year-old boy and a 43-year-old man have been remanded in custody charged with the murder of 12-year-old Bobby Bloomfield, after a court heard that the schoolboy was struck by a car following a chase.
Court Hearing Details
Appearing at Chelmsford Magistrates' Court on Thursday, the two defendants were told they will next appear at Chelmsford Crown Court on Friday for a preliminary hearing. The 15-year-old, who cannot be named for legal reasons, wore a quarter-zip jumper and jeans and spoke only to confirm his date of birth and that he understood the case would be dealt with at crown court. William Lunnon, of Pilgrims Hatch, wore a grey prison tracksuit and spoke only to confirm his age, date of birth and address.
Prosecution's Account
Prosecutor Rohini Majumdar told the court that Bobby and his friends were on private property when Lunnon approached them and asked them to leave. The boys ran off, but were then chased by the two defendants in a car. Bobby sustained serious injuries after being hit by the vehicle on Ashwells Road in Pilgrims Hatch on Sunday evening. He was discovered by officers and died a short time later in hospital.
Ongoing Investigation
Essex Police's Serious Crime Directorate continues to build a detailed picture of the circumstances. Four other people remain in custody on suspicion of perverting the course of justice: two men aged 65 and 54, and two women aged 65 and 45, all from Pilgrims Hatch. They were arrested on Tuesday.
Detective Chief Inspector Greg Wood said: "This remains a complex investigation, and we have made significant progress, including bringing charges and making further arrests. Our focus remains on establishing the full circumstances and supporting Bobby's family, who have suffered an unimaginable loss."
Family Tribute
In a statement released on Tuesday, Bobby's family said: "Losing a child is every parent's nightmare. We are living that nightmare and no words can ever explain how we are feeling. Bobby brought light and life into all our lives, and we have lost that forever." Comedian Josh James, a cousin of Bobby, posted a touching tribute online, writing: "My beautiful cousin Bobby. We will miss and love you always."
