Man, 43, is charged with the murder of his wife, 41, in front of 'a number of children'

A man has been charged with the murder of his wife who was killed in front of 'a number of children'. 

Darryl Bowen, 43, is due to appear at Bristol Magistrates' Court today after being charged overnight in connection with the death of Alison Bowen, 41, in Kingswood, South Gloucestershire yesterday afternoon.

Police were called to the family home in Wedmore Close at about 3.50pm on Monday following reports of a 'serious assault' and Alison was pronounced dead just over half an hour later.

Bowen was arrested from within the property on suspicion of murder and was assessed by health professionals before being questioned by detectives.

Senior Investigating Officer Neil Meade said: 'Although formal identification has not yet been carried out, we believe the deceased to be Alison Bowen, aged 41.

'Alison's family have been updated on this significant development, and specialist liaison officers will continue to support them. Our thoughts remain with them at this extremely difficult time.

'We'll continue to carry out a full and thorough investigation as this case progresses.

'There will remain an increased police presence in the affected area of Kingswood and our officers will be available to answer any questions or concerns the local community may have.'

Police said a number of children were left distressed at witnessing the horror inside the home.

Neighbourhood Policing Chief Inspector Dan Forster added: 'Tragically, there were a number of children inside the property at the time of the incident and while thankfully they weren't hurt, there are understandably distressed at what has happened.

'I would like to express my heartfelt condolences to them and the victim's wider family during what is undoubtedly a very difficult time.

'The children are currently being looked after by a family member and specially trained officers will provide them with support.'

Avon and Somerset Police said its Professional Standards Department has been notified and a mandatory referral will be made to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) to review the circumstances of its response to this incident.