Man Charged with Murder After Body Found in Harlow Pond
A 52-year-old man has been charged with the murder of Phillip Lewis, whose remains were discovered in Oakwood Pond, Harlow, on New Year’s Eve.
Lee Clark, from Wedhey, Harlow, faces murder charges and is due to appear at Colchester Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 9 January.
Second Suspect Released on Bail
A second man, aged 23, was arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit murder but has been released on bail until March while investigations continue.
Police Continue Intensive Investigation
“This is a significant stage in the investigation into the death of Phillip Lewis,” said Detective Superintendent Rob Kirby, head of Essex major crime.
“Our team of detectives and forensic experts have worked tirelessly over the past eight days to piece together the circumstances surrounding Phillip’s death.”
“This is just the beginning of a complex investigation into the death of a 59-year-old father, son and friend.”
“We are currently draining Oakwood Pond to aid further searches, doing so in the most environmentally friendly way possible.”
Police Appeal for Witnesses and Footage
Detective Superintendent Kirby urged anyone who had contact with Phillip Lewis since November 1, 2022, to come forward.
He also called on residents near Oakwood Pond and Harberts Road, south of Fourth Avenue, to share any CCTV or doorbell footage that could aid the investigation.
Additionally, anyone who regularly visits Oakwood Pond and noticed suspicious activity in the past two months is asked to get in touch.
If you have information, CCTV, or dashcam footage related to the case, contact Essex Police detectives on 0800 051 4526.
