Murder Suspect Dies Weeks After Beloved Mum Found Dead in Home
An 80-year-old man arrested on suspicion of murder has died in hospital, West Mercia Police have confirmed. The suspect passed away on Friday, February 13, weeks after 84-year-old Rita Rowley was found with fatal injuries at her home in Prees Heath, Whitchurch.
The tragic incident unfolded on January 27 when police discovered both individuals at the same address. Rita Rowley was pronounced dead a short time later, while the man was taken to hospital with serious injuries and remained in critical condition until his death.
Police Investigation and Coroner's Referral
A spokesperson for West Mercia Police stated: "The suspect in a murder investigation in Whitchurch has died. An 84-year-old woman, who was named as Rita Rowley in a tribute last week, was found dead at her home in Prees Heath on 27 January. An 80-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of murder. He was found at the address with serious injuries and was taken to hospital. He had been in a critical condition since the incident. He died on Friday (13 February) in hospital. His next of kin have been informed."
Both deaths have now been referred to the coroner. Officers continue to express their condolences, emphasizing that their thoughts are with the family and friends of those involved.
Emotional Tribute to Rita Rowley
In a heartfelt tribute, Rita's children described their mother as a loving and independent woman who met her late husband Colin while he was serving in the RAF in Malta. She bravely moved to a different country, leaving her family behind, and worked hard as a seamstress with a great love of fashion.
Rita and Colin shared a passion for travel, which she continued solo or with friends after his death, often visiting her beloved Malta. She adored music and dancing, particularly Elvis Presley and Johnny Mattis, and always had music playing in her home.
Her children added: "Mum loved gardens and flowers. When she first moved to Higher Heath, she cultivated a vegetable patch and set out her own flower garden. She was an exceptional plants woman, and very successful with propagating from cuttings and seeds and would happily share these with others."
Rita also had a deep affection for animals, regularly feeding stray cats and garden birds. Her enduring Catholic faith and friendly personality fostered a strong sense of community, leading her to volunteer for over 20 years at the Age UK daycare centre in Whitchurch and assist others with appointments and shopping.
"Mum always worked hard throughout her life; she was always there for us and encouraged and supported us to do well," her children said. "We will greatly miss her, even though her Alzheimer's was affecting her confidence and sociability she was still bright and engaging. At this time, we would like our privacy to be respected."
