Teenager, 17, charged with murder after death of 20-year-old man in Hailsham

A 17-year-old has been charged with murder after a 20-year-old man was fatally stabbed.

Billy Ripley suffered a serious chest injury, believed to be a stab wound, and died in Vicarage Field in Hailsham, near Eastbourne, despite attempts from paramedics to save him on Thursday (29 August) at about 6.20pm.

His next of kin have been informed and supported by specialist officers.

The defendant, from East Sussex, who cannot be named for legal reasons, is also charged with possession of a knife in public.

He appeared at Brighton Magistrates’ Court on Monday (2 September) and was remanded into youth detention accommodation ahead of his next appearance at Lewes Crown Court on Tuesday.

On Sunday (1 September), a 20-year-old man from Hailsham was arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to murder. He remains in police custody.

On Friday (30 August), a 21-year-old woman from Hailsham was arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender. She has since been released on conditional bail until 30 November.

Detective Chief Inspector Alex Campbell, Senior Investigating Officer, said: “This has been a hugely distressing incident, not least for the family and friends of Billy Ripley, but also the wider community."

Police have thanked the public for their patience and understanding while officers conducted enquiries in the local area.

“Our officers will remain on patrol for reassurance, and in the meantime I would still urge anyone who can assist us in our investigation to please come forward and contact us."

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