Human remains discovered in a field in Wimblington have been formally identified as those of Julie Buckley, 55, police have confirmed. Ms Buckley, from Christchurch near March, was last seen shopping in March on 28 January. She was reported missing in early February after failing to attend appointments, and her disappearance quickly became the focus of a murder investigation led by Cambridgeshire Police’s Major Crime Unit.
During searches of her home, detectives found bloodstains and other evidence that suggested she had come to serious harm. Officers believed she had been killed on 30 January.
Julie Buckley’s Case: New Evidence Uncovers Burial Site in Wimblington
Last week, detectives recovered remains from a field off Blue Lane, Wimblington, after receiving information from the defence team of Karl Hutchings, 48, of The Hill, Christchurch. Hutchings had previously denied murder but admitted killing Ms Buckley at Cambridge Crown Court earlier this month.
A post-mortem examination has since confirmed the remains as Ms Buckley, though the cause of death was inconclusive.
Detective Chief Inspector Richard Stott said: “Julie’s family have been made aware of the post-mortem results, which were inconclusive on the cause of death, and are being supported by specially trained officers. Our thoughts are with them at this very difficult time.”
Hutchings is alleged to have used Ms Buckley’s bank cards and sold her possessions following her death. He was arrested in February 2020 after concerns were raised by neighbours who had not seen her for some time. Police at the time declared the case a rare “no-body” murder investigation, as extensive searches had failed to locate Ms Buckley.
The breakthrough came in September, when Hutchings’ legal team disclosed details of a possible burial site. Detectives searching the location subsequently found human remains, later identified as those of Ms Buckley.
Hutchings pleaded guilty to her murder at Cambridge Crown Court last week. He is due to appear again for a preliminary hearing on 24 October.
DCI Stott added that police will continue to support Ms Buckley’s family as the case progresses through the courts:
“This has been a long and difficult investigation for all involved. While today brings some answers, we know nothing can ease the pain of losing Julie.”
