Murder suspect had leave to remain, say police
Murder suspect had leave to remain – A 31-year-old man accused of murder following the death of a two-year-old girl in Chertsey came to the UK through legal channels and holds valid residency status, authorities confirmed. Kevin Kerjean, a French national originally from the Central African Republic, has also been charged with sexually assaulting a child under 13. His next court appearance is scheduled for Monday at Guildford Crown Court.
Surrey Police responded to a report of safety concerns at a property on Pyrcroft Road around 5:40 PM BST on Thursday. The incident is not linked to an asylum seeker housing situation, as earlier rumors suggested. A police representative clarified that the Home Office verified Kerjean’s legal entry into the UK and his application for European Union Settled Status in December 2020.
Legal Status Confirmed
Kerjean was granted leave to stay in the country in March 2021, with an extension allowing him to remain until March 2031. The Home Office confirmed his permission to reside in the UK was approved and maintained through proper procedures. Officers emphasized that the suspect’s immigration status is not in question.
“At this stage, we are not looking for anyone else in connection with the incident,” stated the police spokesperson.
Floral Tributes at Scene
Residents in Pyrcroft Road left several bouquets of flowers at Syward Place, an apartment complex at the intersection of Pyrcroft Road and Bell Bridge Road, on Thursday. The police believe the child was familiar with Kerjean and the event occurred “within a family setting.” Det Ch Supt Jon Groenen described the situation as “a tragic incident,” noting that investigators are “working hard to build a picture of what happened.”
“We appreciate that all this will be concerning for residents and we would like to thank them for their co-operation as we conduct our investigation,” added Groenen.
Additional reporting by PA Media. Follow BBC Surrey on Facebook, X, and Instagram, and listen to BBC Radio Surrey on Sounds. Share story ideas with southeasttoday@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp 08081 002250.
