Two men have formally denied murdering Stephen Morrisson, the brother of Lauren Goodger's ex-partner, following a fatal stabbing in Essex over four years ago. The pleas were entered at a hearing in London's Central Criminal Court, marking a significant development in a protracted and intricate homicide inquiry.
Court Appearance and Charges
Yonas Girma, 28, of Hounslow Road, Hanworth, and Ellis Heather, 25, previously of Farm Close, Taplow, Maidenhead, both pleaded not guilty to murder at the Old Bailey on December 23. A provisional trial date has been scheduled to last four weeks, commencing on May 18 next year. The charges relate to the violent death of 30-year-old Stephen Morrisson in the summer of 2020.
Details of the Fatal Incident
The attack occurred shortly before 8pm on Tuesday, June 23, 2020, in a car park on Epping Road, Epping. According to Essex Police, Morrisson sustained a single stab wound following a confrontation. Despite his injury, he managed to drive away from the scene towards a nearby Shell petrol station.
Tragically, he collapsed on the forecourt after getting out of his vehicle. Members of the public rushed to his aid and alerted emergency services. He was taken to hospital but died a short time later.
A Complex and Far-Reaching Investigation
Detective Chief Inspector Greg Wood, of the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate, leads the investigation. He emphasised the scale and complexity of the probe, which has spanned more than five years. Investigative work has been meticulous and extensive.
The investigative team has examined a vast amount of evidence, including:
- Over 200 hours of CCTV footage.
- More than 1,000 seized exhibits.
- Approximately 50 mobile phones.
- Nearly 40 computer items.
- Five vehicles.
DCI Wood stated: "This investigation has progressed over the last five years, through a number of challenges and we have always remained focused on securing justice for Stephen’s family and friends. Whilst our meticulous trial preparation work is now underway, we always have the loss Stephen’s family feel at the forefront of our minds."
The case continues to move through the judicial process, with a trial set for next spring at the Central Criminal Court.
