Kent police are reviewing new evidence in the 1996 hammer murders of Lin and Megan Russell in Chillenden, Kent, as efforts continue to resolve lingering questions surrounding the case. Lin Russell, 45, and her six-year-old daughter Megan were fatally attacked on a rural lane, while Megan’s nine-year-old sister Josie survived the assault. The family’s dog was also killed.

Michael Stone was convicted of the murders in 1998, following a disputed confession made while in custody, and was found guilty again after a retrial in 2001. Stone remains in prison and recently provided a fresh DNA sample from Frankland prison in Durham as part of ongoing investigations. Separately, serial killer Levi Bellfield, who previously confessed to the killings but was never charged, has also submitted a DNA sample.

Now, a new suspect has emerged posthumously: Ray Buck, a carpenter who lived nearby in Folkestone, approximately 15 miles from the crime scene, at the time of the murders. Buck died by suicide in 2000 at the age of 46 after reportedly experiencing depression linked to family issues. Prosecutors did not treat him as a suspect during the original inquiry, despite detectives having spoken with him.

According to a witness who came forward in 2017 and informed both the police and Stone’s legal team this year, Buck confessed to the killings on the day they occurred. The witness claims Buck, who was said to be volatile and often carried a hammer in his car due to his profession, admitted to killing three people and the dog, describing his actions as “unforgivable” and stating he “could not stop.” The witness also noted Buck mentioned losing a shoelace during the incident. This account was reportedly shared by a relative of Buck’s.

One of Buck’s sons has volunteered a DNA sample which is being tested alongside those of Stone and Bellfield, as part of a forensic assessment overseen by the Criminal Cases Review Commission. The commission is responsible for investigating potential miscarriages of justice.

Kent Police have maintained that the new witness’s testimony contains inconsistencies when compared to earlier statements provided to investigators. Detective Chief Inspector Neil Kimber emphasized that all information submitted has been thoroughly reviewed by the investigation team. He reaffirmed the conviction of Michael Stone, noting it was upheld following two jury trials and a High Court appeal.

The investigation remains ongoing as authorities seek to clarify outstanding questions and ensure the integrity of the case’s resolution.