Man charged with Bristol woman’s 1967 rape and murder

A 92-year-old man has been charged with the rape and murder of an elderly woman in a case that has remained cold for nearly six decades.

Louisa Dunne, 75, was found strangled on her living room floor by a neighbour on Brittania Road in Easton, Bristol, on 28 June 1967.

Ryland Headley, of Clarence Road, Ipswich, was charged by detectives overnight and will appear at Bristol Magistrates’ Court via video link later.

Avon and Somerset Police said the charge comes after they began reviewing the case in 2023, prompting further forensic examination of some items.

DI Dave Marchant said: “This development marks a hugely significant moment in this investigation.

“Now criminal proceedings are under way it’s important to stress the defendant has the right to a fair trial. Any speculation or misinformation on the circumstances of this case has the potential to prejudice these ongoing proceedings.

“We’ve updated Louisa’s family about this charging decision and a specialist liaison officer will continue to support them in the coming days, weeks and months.”