A Ukrainian man suspected of stabbing another man to death has been charged with murder and is due to appear in court today (Tuesday 8 April).
Andrii Uzhyk, 31, of Devonshire Road, Bognor, is accused of murdering a Bulgarian man, 20-year-old Metodi Ivanov, by stabbing him near Bognor Pier on Friday night.
Sussex Police said: “Metodi Petrov Ivanov sustained fatal stab wounds in the attack close to the pier, in The Esplanade, at around 9.40pm on Friday 4 April.
“The 20-year-old victim, who lived in the town, was taken to Royal Sussex County Hospital, in Brighton, where he sadly died from his injuries in the early hours of Saturday 5 April.
His family issued a statement, saying: “We are devastated at the loss of our beloved Metodi. He was a good, kind boy who had a bright future ahead of him.
“He was good to everyone and liked by people of all nationalities and he was particularly caring with all of his nieces, nephews and family.
“We cannot believe what has happened and Metodi will be dearly missed by all who knew him.”
Sussex Police said: “Andrii Uzhyk, 31, was arrested at his address in nearby Devonshire Road on Saturday 5 April on suspicion of murder and transported to custody.
“The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) has since authorised a charge of murder, two counts of possession of a bladed article and two counts of criminal damage.
“Uzhyk remains remanded in custody ahead of an initial hearing at Brighton Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday 8 April.”
Superintendent Imran Asghar said: “Our focus remains on establishing exactly how and why this tragic incident occurred and we are committed to seeking justice for Metodi’s family and friends.
“The public can expect to see a police presence in the area as our inquiries continue and I’d like to reassure the community that a suspect has been arrested and charged in connection with this matter and a knife seized.
“We’re still urging anyone who saw what happened or captured anything on camera to please come forward.
“You can report it online or call 101, quoting Operation Rudgwick. You can also contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or report it online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.”
