Sir Richard Sutton death: Man charged with murder of one of UK’s wealthiest men

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A 34-year-old man has been charged with the murder of Sir Richard Sutton, one of Britain’s wealthiest men.

Thomas Schreiber, from the Gillingham area of Dorset, was charged with murder, attempted murder and dangerous driving and is due before magistrates in Poole on Monday.

Dorset Police believe hotelier Sir Richard was stabbed along with a woman in her 60s, named in some reports as his wife, who was airlifted to Southmead Hospital in Bristol after the incident near Gillingham on Wednesday where she remains in critical condition.

Detective Inspector Simon Huxter said: “Our thoughts remain with the victims’ family and all of those affected by this terrible incident.

“Following a detailed investigation, we have consulted with the Crown Prosecution Service. As a result, Dorset Police have been authorised to formally charge Thomas Schreiber with the murder of Sir Richard, attempted murder of the injured woman and dangerous driving.”

Sir Richard Sutton Ltd, the multi-millionaire’s property company, paid tribute to the “caring, generous and warm family man” after his sudden death.

“His loss will be felt by everyone within the company, those who worked with him, and his family who have lost an incredible individual,” the firm added.

Sir Richard, 83, owned a string of top London hotels, including the Sheraton Grand Park Lane and the Athenaeum.

He also owned the 6,500 acre Benham Estate in west Berkshire and the Stainton Estate in Lincolnshire.

He was listed at number 435 on The Sunday Times Rich List in 2020, with an estimated family fortune of £301m.