A MAN and woman have appeared in court this morning to face charges in connection with an alleged incident in Wickford.

Levi Draper, 27, of Cranfield Park Avenue, Wickford is charged with the murder of Hugh Doherty, the attempted murder of Esther Doherty, possession of a firearm with intent and possession of an offensive weapon.

Harriet Crittenden, 25, of Cranfield Park Avenue, Wickford, is charged with the attempted murder of Esther Doherty and possession of an offensive weapon.

The pair appeared at Basildon Magistrates’ Court this morning, Thursday April 20, where magistrates declined jurisdiction and referred the case to crown court.

They will appear at Chelmsford Crown Court tomorrow morning and both were remanded in custody.

The charges relate to an incident alleged to have happened on Sunday April 16 at Cranfield Park Avenue during which 45-year-old Hugh Doherty died after suffering a gunshot wound.

Hugh's sister suffered stab wounds and is now recovering from her significant injuries in hospital.