A murder inquiry has been initiated following the demise of a convicted stepfather while in prison.
Authorities responded to a call at 8:25 am yesterday reporting the death of an inmate at HMP Wakefield. The deceased prisoner was identified as Kyle Bevan, aged 33, who had been imprisoned for the killing of Lola James, his partner’s daughter, at her residence in Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire.
West Yorkshire Police confirmed today that a murder investigation has been opened. Three individuals, aged 45, 57, and 63, have been apprehended on suspicion of murder and are currently in police custody.
Detective Chief Inspector James Entwistle, from the Homicide and Major Enquiry Team, stated, “Following a thorough investigation into Mr. Bevan’s passing, we are now treating this as a murder case. We are actively working to ascertain the complete circumstances and are continuing to interrogate the three individuals in custody. The family is being regularly updated as the inquiry unfolds.”
The injuries sustained by Lola James were described by medical professionals as akin to those from a high-velocity car collision, with 101 scratches and bruises on her small body, along with signs of weapon use.
The tragic incident occurred after Bevan, a known drug user, moved in with Lola’s mother, Sinead James, shortly after connecting with her on Facebook. Initially, Bevan alleged that Lola’s injuries were accidental, attributing them to a fall down the stairs after a mishap involving the family pet. However, an examination revealed that Lola had suffered 101 injuries, including severe brain trauma and significant retinal damage.
Despite Bevan’s denial of the murder charges, he was convicted in 2023. Lola succumbed to her injuries at Withybush Hospital four days after the incident, on July 21, 2020.
