Detectives investigating a murder in West Thurrock are now in a position to name the woman who died.

Julie Hunt, 47, from Rainham, east London, sadly died of her injuries following an assault near to A1306 Arterial Road at around 8.30am on Friday, April 20.

Florin Ion, 31, who is unemployed, of Ipswich Crescent, Birmingham, was charged with her murder and has been remanded in custody to appear at Basildon Crown Court on Tuesday, April 24.

Senior Investigating Officer Detective Superintendent Tracey Harman, of the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate, said: “Our investigation has progressed with officers spending many hours taking witness statements, reviewing CCTV and dash cam footage and making enquiries in the local area. We now have a clearer picture around the circumstances of this awful attack. 

"However, there are still a number of people we would like to talk to and we are making attempts to locate up to six drivers who are key witnesses in this investigation. 

"Dedicated family liaison officers are continuing to support Ms Hunt’s family during this investigation and I ask members of the community to respect their privacy during this difficult and distressing time.”

If you were driving along the A1306 Arterial Road at around 8.30am on Friday, April 20, and you have information, then please call the Serious Crime Directorate on 101 quoting incident 228 of 20/04 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.