Tragedy Strikes Nottinghamshire Farming Family
Nottinghamshire Police have initiated a murder investigation following the disappearance of an 82-year-old farmer and the subsequent discovery of his son's body. The force confirmed it is treating the case as a homicide after receiving intelligence indicating Brian Wright, a respected local figure, is deceased.
Details of a Family Tragedy
The body of Charles Wright, 52, was discovered in an outbuilding on his father's farm, located just outside the village of Langford near Newark, on Saturday morning. His death is not being treated as suspicious and police believe he took his own life after killing his father.
The investigation was triggered by the disappearance of Brian Wright, 82, who was reported missing from the area on Thursday. The case took a darker turn when it emerged that Charles Wright is also believed to have attempted to kill his younger brother, James Wright, 50.
In a message to neighbours, James Wright revealed that his father's vanishing was 'totally out of character' and followed an argument with Charles. He described a harrowing incident on Saturday morning where, while out for a run with a friend, his brother Charles deliberately hit them with his car at approximately 30mph.
James sustained bruising, and his friend suffered a broken leg. Neighbours reported that James told them Charles then exited his vehicle armed with a weapon, apparently intent on 'finishing me off'. A second attempt with the car was made, but James managed to escape into a garden.
Community in Shock and Police Response
A source close to the family stated that police subsequently took the family, including Brian Wright's wife, into protective custody. It was then they were informed that Charles Wright had admitted to killing his father following the Thursday argument before taking his own life on Saturday.
Nottinghamshire Police has referred itself to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) due to officers' previous contact with family members. Detective Chief Inspector Ruby Burrow expressed the force's condolences, stating: "First and foremost, our thoughts are with the family and loved ones of those affected by this tragic incident."
She sought to reassure the public, adding, "We are not looking for anyone else in connection with this incident. At this early stage, we believe all parties to be known to each other and there is no wider threat to the public."
The local community in Langford has been left reeling. One anonymous local described the events as "like something from a TV drama," noting that such incidents are unheard of in the village. Brian Wright was described as a "pillar of the community," a parish councillor, and a dedicated church fundraiser who organised ploughing matches. His farm has been in the family for over 70 years.
Another resident expressed confusion over what could have sparked the tragedy, speculating it may have been related to "inheritance, or money." They also noted the proximity of the River Trent, suggesting it as a possible location in the search for Brian Wright.
Police teams remain in the area conducting searches. Anyone with information is urged to call 101, quoting incident number 193 of 22 November 2025, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
