Grandson, 23, 'murdered his grandfather during lockdown'

A 23-year-old man today appeared in court accused of murdering his grandfather after allegedly suffering from isolation during the third national lockdown.

Ben Oliver of Bexleyheath, south-east London had also previously been upset by the death of his pet ferret, it has been alleged. 

The defendant's grandmother called emergency services to the home she shared with her husband, David Oliver, in Eltham on the morning of January 19. 

Oliver, 74, who was confined to a hospital-style bed due to heart problems, was found with severe injuries to his chest, neck and eyes.

He was pronounced dead at the scene, with the cause found to be incised wounds to the neck.

The following day, Oliver was charged with his grandfather's murder.

On Monday, he appeared at the Old Bailey by video-link from Wandsworth Prison. Wearing a mask, he spoke only to confirm his identity.

Judge Rebecca Poulet QC set a plea hearing for April 9, when a provisional trial date is due to be set.

The defendant was remanded into custody.