Four people have been remanded into custody after appearing in court, accused of the murder of Joanne Penney, a 40-year-old woman who was shot dead in what police believe may have been a case of mistaken identity.
A total of five individuals were charged in connection with the case, appearing before Cardiff Magistrates’ Court on Saturday.
The accused and the charges
The four individuals charged with murder are:
- Marcus Huntley, 20, from St Mellons, Cardiff
- Melissa Quailey-Dashper, 39, from Leicester
- Joshua Gordon, 27, from Oadby, Leicestershire
- Tony Porter, 68, from Braunstone Town, Leicestershire
Additionally, Porter has been charged with participating in the criminal activities of an organised crime group.
A fifth individual, Kristina Ginova, 21, from Oadby, Leicestershire, has been charged with assisting an offender.
Following their court appearance, magistrates remanded all five individuals into custody. They are now scheduled to appear before Cardiff Crown Court on 18th March.
Details of the incident
Ms Penney was fatally shot in the chest at a property in Llys Illtyd, Talbot Green, South Wales, on Sunday evening.
Emergency services were called to the scene, where they found her with serious injuries. Despite efforts to save her, she was pronounced dead at the scene.
Neighbours in the area, which is close to a retail park, have spoken of their shock. Some reported hearing a gunshot on the night of the incident.
On Monday, local residents placed flowers near the cordon as a tribute to Ms Penney, with many expressing disbelief over the tragic event.
Police investigation and additional arrests
South Wales Police confirmed that a seventh person has now been arrested in connection with the investigation.
A 32-year-old man was taken into custody in Suffolk on Friday evening as inquiries continue.
Meanwhile, a 42-year-old man from Talbot Green, who was arrested on Sunday, has been released without charge for the murder investigation. However, he remains on police bail for an unrelated assault allegation.
Detective’s appeal for information
Detective Chief Superintendent Ceri Hughes, who is leading the investigation, has urged anyone with information to come forward.
“Our team of detectives and specialist staff are continuing to piece together the circumstances behind Joanne’s tragic death,” she said.
“I would still urge anyone who has information, either about her death or what happened at the property in Llys Illtyd on Sunday evening, to come forward – the smallest piece of information could be of vital importance.
“I would like to thank the local community for their support of the investigation so far and to everyone who has spoken to us and provided information.”
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Family’s heartfelt tribute
Ms Penney’s grieving family have paid tribute to her, describing her as a beloved daughter, mother, sister, and niece.
“We are devastated by the tragic loss of our beloved Joanne. She was a daughter, mother, sister, and niece – loved deeply by all who knew her,” they said in a statement.
“Her kindness, strength, and love for her family will never be forgotten.
“During this incredibly difficult time, we ask for privacy as we grieve and begin to process this unimaginable loss.
“We appreciate the support and condolences from the community, and kindly request that our family be given the space to mourn in peace.
“We would be grateful if anyone with information could share this with the police investigation team. Thank you for respecting our wishes.”
Ongoing investigation
Police continue to investigate the motive behind the attack, with speculation that Ms Penney was not the intended target.
Authorities are now urging witnesses or anyone with relevant information to contact South Wales Police.
As the case unfolds, further details are expected to emerge when the accused return to court next week.
