A MAN has been charged with the murder of a mother and son.
Police charged Andrew Milne after new evidence came to light in their investigation into a fatal house fire in Eastbourne.
The property in Croxden Way went up in flames in the early hours of July 10, 2018.
Gina Ingles, 34, and her four-year-old son Milo Ingles-Bailey died in the fire.
Gina’s partner, Toby Jarrett, 27, escaped via a first floor window but suffered serious burns.
There had previously been five arrests in connection with the incident, which is being treated as a murder investigation.
But today, after new information was discovered about the blaze, Sussex Police announced they have charged 42-year-old Andrew Milne with the murder of Gina Ingles and her young son, as well as the attempted murder of Toby Jarrett.
READ MORE>>>Fifth arrest into deadly Eastbourne blaze
Detective inspector Gordon Denslow, of the Surrey and Sussex Major Crime Team, said: “Following a review of evidence presented to them by the Surrey and Sussex Major Crime Team, the Crown Prosecution Service has authorised charges for two counts of murder, and one of attempted murder.
“We are unable to disclose any further details at this time, to ensure any defendants have the right to a fair trial.”
Andrew Milne, from Hastings, was arrested in the early hours of July 28.
He has been remanded in custody to appear before Lewes Crown Court today via video link.
A 28-year-old woman from Hastings, who was arrested on the same morning on suspicion of committing an act or series of acts with intent to pervert the course of justice, has been released under investigation pending further enquiries.
In January, a 30-year-old man from St Leonards was arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit murder.
He has been released on conditional bail until August 7.
Det Insp Denslow added: “This has been a long and complex investigation, and we remain committed to bringing those responsible for this tragic incident to justice on behalf of the loved ones of Gina, Milo and Toby.”
Sussex Police are still appealing for information on the incident as the investigation continues.
A spokesman said: “Anyone with any information about the investigation is urged to report it online or call 101, quoting Operation Druffield.
“You can also contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article