Gary Mansfield charged with murder of 88‑year‑old mother in Brentwood, UK

An 88‑year‑old woman, Janet Mansfield, was found unresponsive in her bed at Sawyers Hall Lane in Brentwood, Essex, on 2 July 2026. Police launched a murder investigation after carers reported suspicious circumstances surrounding her death. Her son, 65‑year‑old Gary Mansfield of Stansted Close, Billericay, was charged with one count of murder and one count of attempted murder. He appeared at Southend Magistrates' Court on 3 July and is due to appear at Chelmsford Crown Court and later Basildon Crown Court. The inquest into Janet Mansfield’s death has been suspended for four months while the investigation continues. Detective Inspector Lydia George expressed condolences to those affected and confirmed that authorities are working to support the family during this difficult time.