THE trial of six people charged in connection with the alleged murder of a 22-year-old man in Tilehurst is set to begin this week.

Reece Heffernan died at his home in Tilehurst on October 31, 2021.

Here’s what we know so far about the case.

What happened?

Police were called to Romany Lane in Tilehurst at 10.40pm on October 31 following reports of a stabbing.

 

Romany Lane, Reading, where Reece was stabbed to death on Halloween

Romany Lane, Reading, where Reece was stabbed to death on Halloween

 

A post-mortem revealed Reece Heffernan, the alleged victim, died from a stab wound to the chest.

READ MORE: Police launch murder probe after man stabbed on Halloween

Speaking after the incident, Senior Investigating Officer Andy Howard commented on the case.

 

Romany Lane

Romany Lane

 

He said: “At this time we believe that this was a targeted incident and that there is no risk to the wider public.”

Following his death, floral tributes and boxing gloves were left for Reece Heffernan outside his Romany Lane address.

 

Flowers left in memory of Reece Heffernan.

Flowers left in memory of Reece Heffernan.

 

Who is being tried?

Six people will stand trial in connection with Reece Heffernan’s death at Reading Crown Court.

READ MORE: Pictures from the scene of Tilehurst murder probe

They are:

  • Carlos Fonseca, 24, of Fawn Drive, Reading, charged with murder, possession of a blade and perverting the course of justice
  • Tuviah Thompson Hordle, 18, of Brant Close, Arborfield, Wokingham, charged with murder and possession of a blade.
  • Hamzah Ahmed, 19, of Jubilee Road, Reading, charged with murder and possession of a blade.
  • A 17-year-old boy from Wokingham, who we cannot name for legal reasons, charged with murder and perverting the course of justice
  • Umer Arshad, 24, of Waterloo Road, Wokingham, charged with perverting the course of justice
  • Madison Henderson, 19, of King’s Road, Reading, charged with perverting the course of justice and possession of cannabis with intent to supply

When does the trial start?

Technically, the trial started on Monday, June 27.

However, the first and second days were used for legal arguments and jury selection.

 

Romany Lane

Romany Lane

 

READ MORE: Boy charged in connection with Halloween stabbing

The Chronicle understands the jury will be empanelled tomorrow (Wednesday, June 29), with a view to starting the trial proper later on the same day.

At a preliminary hearing in November 2021, Her Honour Judge Norton said the trial is expected to last five-to-six weeks.

However, the start time and the length of the trial are subject to change.

Check back on The Chronicle for the latest developments from this case.