Full Breakdown
Murder Charge in Worthing After Woman Found Dead
5/17/2026, 9:19:49 PM
Murder Charge Following Fatal Incident on Durrington Lane
On Thursday 14 May at 19:50 BST, Sussex Police responded to a welfare call at a Durrington Lane property in Worthing. Officers found a 65-year-old woman pronounced dead. A 37-year-old man, Alexandru Nechifor, was arrested on suspicion of murder and two counts of assaulting a police constable. He was charged with murder on Friday and remains in custody pending a magistrates’ hearing on Monday. Police confirmed that the woman and the suspect were acquainted.
Police Statements on the Investigation
Detective Inspector Zinyama called the event a “tragic incident” and offered condolences to the victim’s family. She said the investigation is in its early stages, with officers conducting extensive enquiries. Police say the case appears isolated, poses no broader community threat, and no further suspects are sought. An increased police presence will remain, and the force urges anyone with information to contact them online or via 101, referencing Operation Bucklow. The investigation is being conducted under Operation Bucklow.
Scene Management and Police Presence
A visible police presence, including forensic teams, was reported on Durrington Lane late Thursday. The road was partially cordoned and officers searched the property. Forensic officers collected evidence from the property. Sussex Police continue heightened visibility in the neighbourhood during the investigation.
Discrepancies Between Media Accounts
The BBC names the suspect as Alexandru Nechifor, resident of Worthing; The Argus describes “a 37-year-old man from Durrington” without naming him. Both sources agree the victim and suspect knew each other and the incident is isolated. No motive or further victim details have been released. The two outlets differ on whether the suspect’s name is provided.
Direct Statements from Detectives
- “This is a tragic incident, and our thoughts are with the woman’s loved ones at this difficult time.” — Detective Inspector Amanda Zinyama, Major Crime Team, Sussex Police
- “We are in the early stages of a fast-moving investigation, and officers are carrying out extensive enquiries to establish the full circumstances.” — DI Amanda Zinyama
- “While we understand this incident will cause concern locally, we believe it to be isolated, with no threat to the wider community, and we are not currently looking for anyone else in connection with the incident.” — DI Amanda Zinyama
- “There will be an increased police presence in the area while enquiries are ongoing.” — DI Amanda Zinyama
Future Legal Proceedings
Sussex Police will present the suspect before magistrates on Monday, after which further court steps are expected. The force will continue to solicit public information and keep an elevated presence on Durrington Lane.
