Suspect dies in bike crash after author suffers head injuries in village shooting
A PARISH councillor and children’s author has been shot in a remote hamlet, with the suspect fleeing on a motorbike before dying in a crash, police have revealed.
James Nash, 42, was said to be in a critical condition in hospital with “serious head injuries” following the shocking shooting.
The suspect is believed to have left the scene on foot before jumping on to a motorcycle and crashing the bike three miles away during a police chase.
Police said the rider, a 34-yearold man, died at the scene of the crash.
It is understood he was known to Mr Nash, though their alleged relationship is unclear.
Idyllic
Police also said a 40-year-old woman sustained minor injuries and that a property half a mile away has been searched by officers.
Mr Nash is a self-employed artist who writes children’s books. His wife Dr Sarah Nash works at a research laboratory for the Science and Technology Facilities Council.
Armed officers swooped on idyllic Upper Enham, Hants, yesterday afternoon after the attack.
Mr Nash, who is a councillor for Enham Alamein Parish Council, and his wife live in a detached twobedroom cottage in Upper Enham, where the average house price is £813,149.
Police said the victim was rushed to Southampton General Hospital where he is being treated for his injuries. Mr Nash, who was named as the victim by a resident who lives nearby, is said to be an active councillor heavily involved with the local community.
A Hampshire Constabulary spokesman said: “The man had been shot and sustained serious head injuries. He remains in a critical condition in
General Hospital.
“A 40-year-old woman was also assaulted during this incident and sustained minor injuries.
“A motorcycle failed to stop connection with this incident.
“A short time later, a motorbike crashed on the A343 near
Southampton in
Hurstbourne Tarrant and the road was closed while emergency services attended.
“The motorcyclist, a 34-year-old man, died at the scene. Next of kin have been informed and identification procedures are ongoing.”
One resident said: “I know the guy that got shot. He is a lovely guy.
Community shocked... Police at the scene of the incident in Upper Enham, Hants, left. Parish councillor and author James Nash, far left, was named as the victim of the shooting
He would do anything for anyone. He helps out with lots of things.”
Mr Nash describes himself on his blog as: “A naturalist, first and foremost devoted to the conservation of our wild world.”
A website lists him as resident artist at The Hawk Conservancy Trust based in Andover, Hants.