A murder investigation is underway in Henley-on-Thames, according to Thames Valley Police. The body of a woman was discovered off Phyllis Court Drive in Henley at around 7:50am on Friday, March 6, Thames Valley Police reported. Police taped off the pavilion at Phyllis Court Club, shut the towpath, and asked rowers not to pass, Thames Valley Police stated.
There is an increased police presence in the area, Thames Valley Police indicated. The clubhouse and grounds on the Henley side of the moat were closed, but the Fitness Centre remained open, Thames Valley Police said. The specific circumstances that led to the discovery of the body at 7:50am on March 6 have not been disclosed by authorities.
A 44-year-old man from Henley was arrested on suspicion of murder, Thames Valley Police stated. An extension for further detention was granted for the arrested man, according to Thames Valley Police. The victim was initially not formally identified, but police were supporting the family, Thames Valley Police reported.
Formal identification of the victim was stated to follow in due course, Thames Valley Police said. The woman was later identified as Jennifer Symonds, aged 44, from Henley-on-Thames, Thames Valley Police confirmed. The exact cause of death of Jennifer Symonds remains unknown at this time.
On Sunday, March 8, Nelio Gouveia, aged 44 of Phyllis Court Drive, Henley-on-Thames, was charged with one count of murder, Thames Valley Police announced. Nelio Gouveia was remanded in custody and is due to appear at Oxford Crown Court on March 11, according to Thames Valley Police. Police stated they are not seeking anyone else in connection with the incident, Thames Valley Police said.
Police reassured the public there is no risk to the wider public, Thames Valley Police reported. A scene watch remains in place and is likely to continue into early next week, Thames Valley Police indicated. The relationship between Nelio Gouveia and Jennifer Symonds has not been revealed by investigators.
The investigation into this murder is ongoing, with key details still unclear. What evidence led to the arrest and charge of Nelio Gouveia has not been specified by police. Are there any known motives for the murder remains an open question.
Despite these unknowns, authorities have moved quickly to bring charges, reflecting the seriousness of the case. The community in Henley-on-Thames is likely to see continued police activity as the scene watch persists into the coming days. The discovery of the body prompted immediate police action, including securing the area and initiating a thorough investigation.
The arrest of the suspect occurred shortly after the body was found, indicating a swift response by law enforcement. The charging of Nelio Gouveia within days of the incident underscores the progress made in the case, though many aspects remain under investigation. The public has been assured of their safety, but the scene watch suggests ongoing forensic work.
The closure of parts of Phyllis Court Club and the towpath disrupted local activities, highlighting the impact on the community. The support provided to the victim's family by police during the identification process is a standard procedure in such cases. The upcoming court appearance will mark the next legal step, with further details expected to emerge as the case proceeds.