The Press and Journal (Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire)
Man charged with the rape and murder of student Libby Squire
Crime: 25-year-old to appear at Hull Magistrates’ Court on October 30
A 25-year-old man has been charged with the rape and murder of Libby Squire.
The disappearance of the 21-year-old Hull University student in February this year prompted a widespread search, involving hundreds of police officers and members of the public.
After she had been missing for nearly seven weeks, the philosophy student’s body was recovered from the Humber Estuary in March.
Humberside Police said Pawel Relowicz has been charged with raping and murdering Ms Squire and will appear at Hull Magistrates’ Court on October 30.
Chief Crown Prosecutor Gerry Wareham said: “Following the death of Libby Squire in Hull, the
Crown Prosecution Service has today authorised Humberside Police to charge Pawel Relowicz, 25, of Raglan Street, Hull, with rape and murder. Libby’s family have been informed.
“This decision was made following a careful review of all the evidence presented to us by Humberside Police as a result of their lengthy and complex investigation.
“Criminal proceedings against Mr Relowicz are now active and he has a right to a fair trial. It is extremely important that there should be no reporting, commentary or sharing of information online which could in any way prejudice these proceedings.”
Detective Superintendent Martin Smalley said: “My heartfelt thanks go out to Libby’s parents for their continued understanding and patience throughout the investigative process.
“They have been updated on all of the developments and we will continue to support them moving forward and throughout the court proceedings.”
University of Hull ViceChancellor Professor Susan Lea said: “My thoughts, and those of my colleagues and our students, are with Libby’s family and friends at this time. Libby was and always will be part of our community, which is strong and supportive, and we will continue to support our colleagues and students over the forthcoming months.”
“Decision made following careful review of all the evidence presented”
Ms Squire was last seen at 12.10am on February 1 near her home in Wellesley Avenue, Hull, having returned home from an evening out. Later that morning, she was reported missing, prompting an intensive search by hundreds of uniformed officers as well as search specialists, dog handlers, underwater officers and the public.
On March 20, the force said a body had been recovered from the water in the Humber Estuary and, a day later, it was confirmed as being that of Ms Squire.