Murder suspect Heald found dead in jail cell

Heald (53), of Foljambe Road, Eastwood, was due to hear the jury’s verdict on the murder and rape charges he faced following an eight day trial at Hull Crown Court.

A Prison Service spokesperson said: “John Heald was found unresponsive in his cell at Hull prison at about 5.50am today (February 6).

“Paramedics attended but he was pronounced dead shortly afterwards.

“Every self-inflicted death is a tragedy and we make strenuous efforts to learn from each one.

“As with all deaths, the Independent Prisons and Probation Ombudsman will conduct an investigation.”

Heald was charged with the murder of Bridlington landlady Bei Carter and three counts of rape against a Sheffield woman who was known to him.