New Suspect Named in Russell Hammer Murders Review

A new suspect, Raymond Buck, has been identified in the 1996 hammer murders of Dr Lin Russell and her daughter Megan, as Michael Stone continues to serve a life sentence for the crime. The Criminal Cases Review Commission (CCRC) is now reviewing new witness statements and DNA evidence in the case.

Russell Murders: New Evidence Emerges

Two witnesses have provided statements to the CCRC identifying Raymond Buck as the perpetrator in the brutal attack that occurred on July 9, 1996. Dr Lin Russell and her six-year-old daughter Megan were bludgeoned to death with a hammer while walking home from a school swimming gala in Kent. Dr Russell's nine-year-old daughter, Josie, survived the attack with serious injuries.

Michael Stone, who has been imprisoned for 29 years, was convicted of the murders and attempted murder of Josie Russell. The new evidence comes from family members of Buck, who reportedly confessed to the killings shortly after they occurred.

Michael Stone's Case Under Review

One of the witnesses, Ross Shields, told The Sunday Times that he overheard Buck state on the day of the attacks, "I’ve done something unforgivable. I’ve killed three people." Buck, who died by suicide in 2000 at the age of 46, was a carpenter with a history of violence.

Stone's solicitor, Karen Todner, expressed optimism regarding the review. "We're hoping that things are finally, finally moving in the right direction," Todner stated. The CCRC is undertaking extensive DNA analysis, with advancements in scientific capabilities since Stone's original trial potentially yielding conclusive evidence.

DNA Testing and Future Proceedings

The CCRC is conducting new DNA analysis. This process includes testing samples from both Michael Stone and members of Raymond Buck's family.

Todner explained that a positive DNA match to someone other than Michael Stone would prompt the legal team to ask the CCRC to refer the case back to the Court of Appeal. "So hopefully we'll know where we are by the end of this year," she added, signaling a potential resolution timeline.