A tragedy has shaken a quiet Essex community, leaving a trail of grief in its wake. The news that 12-year-old Bobby Bloomfield was murdered after being struck by a car will send shockwaves through the neighbourhoods around Pilgrims Hatch and Brentwood. A 43-year-old man and a 15-year-old boy have been charged with his murder, appearing before Chelmsford Magistrates' Court earlier this week.
During a brief hearing, William Lunnon of Ashwells Road, Pilgrims Hatch, and the teenage boy (whose identity cannot be disclosed due to legal reasons) confirmed their names and dates of birth. Presiding magistrate Lynette Brown informed them that they would next appear at Chelmsford Crown Court on Friday. Both defendants were remanded in custody following the proceedings.
Prosecutor Rohini Majumdar revealed to the court that Bobby and three friends had entered what they believed to be abandoned properties on private land, prompting a chase by a car which ultimately struck him. This incident occurred in Ashwells Road at approximately 5:40 PM on Sunday. Essex Police received the report shortly before this time.
Bobby Bloomfield, a pupil at Shenfield High School, sustained severe injuries and tragically passed away in hospital hours after the incident. His family has described him as someone who "brought light and life into all our lives," while a spokesperson for his school expressed profound sadness and shock at his death.
In connection with the ongoing investigation, Essex Police have also arrested two women (aged 65 and 45) and two men (aged 65 and 54) on suspicion of perverting the course of justice. These individuals were taken into custody on Tuesday and remain detained. Detectives describe the inquiry as "complex" and are continuing to piece together the detailed circumstances surrounding Bobby's death.