PILGRIMS HATCH, Essex — What many initially believed to be a tragic road traffic accident has escalated into a murder investigation after two individuals were charged in connection with the death of 12-year-old Bobby Bloomfield.

Bobby was struck by a vehicle on Ashwells Road in Pilgrims Hatch, near Brentwood, shortly before 5:40pm on Sunday, June 8, 2026. He sustained serious injuries and was rushed to hospital, where he sadly died a short time later.

William Lunnon, 43, of Ashwells Road in Pilgrims Hatch, and a 15-year-old boy (who cannot be named for legal reasons) have both been charged with murder. They appeared at Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court and were remanded in custody. They are due to appear at Chelmsford Crown Court for further proceedings.

Four other people — two men aged 65 and 54, and two women aged 65 and 45, all from the Pilgrims Hatch area — were arrested on suspicion of perverting the course of justice and remain in custody.

Alleged Circumstances

Court hearings revealed that Bobby and three friends were on private land (which they believed to be abandoned properties) when Lunnon approached them and asked them to leave. The boys reportedly ran off but were allegedly chased by a car driven by the 15-year-old, with Lunnon as passenger. The vehicle struck Bobby. It is further alleged that the teenager then exited the car and assaulted the boy.

The alleged motive appears linked to the boys being on the private property.

Tributes to Bobby

Bobby’s family paid a heartfelt tribute, saying: “Losing a child is every parent’s nightmare. We are living that nightmare, and no words can ever explain how we are feeling. Bobby brought light and life into all our lives, and we have lost that forever. The hole he has left can never be filled.” They have asked for privacy as they grieve.

Described as charismatic with a “contagious” positive energy, Bobby was a pupil at Shenfield High School. Tributes have poured in from the local community, school, and beyond.

Essex Police continue to investigate and have appealed for witnesses, CCTV, or dashcam footage from the area on that day.

This case has deeply shocked the local community and highlighted concerns around child safety. Anyone with information is urged to contact Essex Police.