Southend Murder: Forensic Tests Reveal How Leanne Meecham Died

23 February 2014, 10:11 | Updated: 23 February 2014, 10:17

Post-mortem reveals Leanne Meecham died from a brain injury, a week after being stabbed in the throat.

Forensic tests show Leanne Meecham, who's ex partner's accused of murdering her in Westcliff, died from a brain injury after being stabbed in the throat.

The 26-year-old was found stabbed at home in Park Street, Westcliff, at about 9.30am on 13 February.

She died in hospital on 20 February a week after the attack.

A post-mortem's revealed the preliminary cause of death was down to a brain injury which was the result of a cardiac arrest due to a stab wound to her throat.

42-year-old Simon Meecham, of Southend, appeared at Chelmsford Magistrates Court yesterday charged with killing "devoted mother'' Leanne Meecham.

He's due back in court tomorrow.

An inquest into Leanne's death is due to be opened on Tuesday 25 February, when she's expected to be formally idenfitied by the coroner.