Killamarsh deaths: Man, 31, charged with murder of mum and 3 children found dead at sleepover

A 31-year-old man has been charged with the murder of a mother and three children who were found dead in a house in Killamarsh.

The bodies of John Paul Bennet, 13, Lacey Bennet, 11, their mother Terri Harris, 35 and Lacey’s friend Connie Gent, 11, were discovered at a property in Chandos Crescent, near Sheffield, on Sunday (19 September) morning.

At a glance: 5 key points

• Derbyshire Police has said Damien Bendall has been charged with the murder of the four people and remains in custody.
• The force confirmed the four bodies were found after police responded to a call about concerns for the safety of a man at the Killamarsh address at 7.26am.
• Officers have also disclosed that Mr Bendall was taken to hospital with self-inflicted minor injuries.
• Mr Bendall, of Chandos Crescent, will appear at Southern Derbyshire Magistrates’ Court in Derby on Wednesday (22 September).
• Derbyshire Constabulary have established an online portal for members of the public to submit footage in relation to the deaths, allowing people to report information or send CCTV, doorbell video or dashcam footage directly to the investigation team.

What’s been said

Detective Chief Inspector Sally Blaiklock, who is leading the investigation, said: “Our thoughts remain with the families of Terri, John Paul, Lacey and Connie – as well as the communities that have been affected by this most tragic of incidents.

“A large scene remains in place on Chandos Crescent and local residents will see an increased police presence in the area over the coming days, including patrols by officers in the local area.

“I would urge anyone who is concerned about the incident to speak to officers in the area or use the online reporting tool to pass information in confidence.”

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