Hailsham murder investigation: Fundraiser for 'loving, caring and kind' dad

Megan Baker
By Megan Baker

Trainee Reporter

Published 3rd Sep 2024, 16:54 BST
Updated 4th Sep 2024, 11:50 BST
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A fundraiser has been set up to cover the funeral costs of a dad who died following a stabbing in Hailsham.

Billy Ripley suffered a wound to the chest at Vicarage Field shopping centre in Hailsham on Thursday (August 29) evening, said police.

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The 20-year-old – who leaves behind a young daughter – has been described as a ‘loving, caring and kind young man’.

Following the tragedy, Mr Ripley’s aunt Julie Puttick has launched a fundraiser to help cover the costs of the funeral and headstone.

A fundraiser has been set up to cover the funeral costs of a dad who died following a stabbing in Hailsham. Photo: National WorldA fundraiser has been set up to cover the funeral costs of a dad who died following a stabbing in Hailsham. Photo: National World
A fundraiser has been set up to cover the funeral costs of a dad who died following a stabbing in Hailsham. Photo: National World

So far, it has raised more than £4,500.

Ms Puttick said: “[Billy] was a family person who loved everyone especially his daughter.

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"We would like to raise this money to give him the send off and headstone he deserves.

“He was a loving, caring and kind young man who will be missed by everyone and will always be with us.”

The town centre was sealed off while police investigated the incident on Thursday evening. Flowers, cards and balloons have now been laid on the scene in tribute to the young father.

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The Crown Prosecution Service authorised a charge of murder against a 17-year-old male from Hellingly, who cannot be named for legal reasons, Sussex Police confirmed.

A 20-year-old man from Hailsham was also arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to murder, Sussex Police said.

A 21-year-old woman from Hailsham was later arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender, according to Sussex Police.

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She has since been released on conditional bail until November, police added.

Officers have continued to make enquiries in the local area amid the police investigation.

In a statement issued on Friday (August 30), Detective Chief Inspector Alex Campbell said: “We would once again like to express our sincere condolences to the family of the young man who has lost his life.

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“They will continue to receive our full support while we search for answers.

“Our officers will remain on patrol for reassurance, and in the meantime I would still urge anyone who can assist us in our investigation to please come forward and contact us."

For more information, and to donate to the fundraiser, visit: www.gofundme.com/f/billy-ripley.

Related topics:BillyHailshamSussex Police

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