Exeter murders: 27-year-old appears in court accused of killing three pensioners

A 27-year-old man has appeared in court charged with murdering three pensioners.

Alexander Lewis-Ranwell, from Croyde, North Devon, appeared at Exeter Magistrates’ Court on Saturday accused of murdering Anthony Payne, 80, and twins Dick and Roger Carter, 84, in Exeter between February 10 and 12.

Lewis-Ranwell, who was arrested on Tuesday evening, is also accused of causing grievous bodily harm with intent to John Ellis in Barnstaple on February 9 and the same charge in relation to Stasys Belevicius in Exeter on February 11.

During a brief appearance at Exeter Magistrates’ Court on Saturday, Lewis-Ranwell was told that the case will be sent to Exeter Crown Court, where he will appear on Monday.

Mr Payne was found dead at an address in Bonhay Road on Monday, while the bodies of the Carter twins were discovered at their home in Cowick Lane the following day.

Mr Payne’s brother-in-law Ronnie Teague paid tribute to the 80-year-old, describing him as a “normal bloke who loved a pint”.

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Speaking from his home in Newton Abbot, Devon, the 73-year-old, said: “It was a big shock and I still can’t believe it. When I heard I just thought ‘oh my god.’ It is such a shocking thing to hear.

“He used to be an outgoing chap and used to go to the pub a lot. He would play darts and cards and was friendly with everyone but he did become a bit more reclusive in latter years.

“He was not the sort of person to make enemies. You would never have thought he would go this way. He was just a normal and friendly bloke.”