A MAN accused of murder of a 61-year-old woman and attempted murder of another woman has appeared in court.
Damian Homer, of Haresfield Close in Worcester, did not enter a plea when he appeared at Kidderminster Magistrates Court on Monday (March 4).
Homer is accused of the murder of Wendy Francis and the attempted murder of Stacey Hill.
The 50-year-old, who wore a grey jumper, confirmed his name and date of birth at the start of the hearing in Courtroom 1.
During a short hearing magistrates sent the case to the higher court.
Lauren Millichip appeared for the prosecution with Amer Hussain defending.
Homer, who was remanded in custody, was told by magistrates the next hearing of the case would take place at Warwick Crown Court on Tuesday (March 5).
The charges are in relation to the death of Wendy Francis at an address in Haresfield Close, Warndon, Worcester, on Saturday night (March 2).
A second woman, aged 38, was taken to hospital in the incident. Her condition has been described by the force as "now stable, and she continues to receive medical treatment".
In a statement, Wendy’s family said: “Wendy will be hugely missed; she was one in a million and much-loved."
The court appearance took place after West Mercia Police released a statement saying Homer had been charged on Monday morning.
A spokesperson for West Mercia Police previously said: "Although formal identification has yet to take place, with permission of the family we are able to confirm that Wendy Francis, aged 61, sadly lost her life in the incident which is being investigated by West Mercia Police."
Detective Chief Inspector Leighton Harding of the Murder Investigation Unit said: "I understand that incidents of this nature can be alarming, but I would like to reassure the local community that this was an isolated incident and there is no wider risk to the public.
"You will notice a higher police presence in the area in the coming days as officers investigate this incident.
"Our thoughts are with the family of the woman who has sadly lost her life."
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 The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.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