At 21:40 hours on Friday 4th April 2025, 20 year old Metodi PETROV IVANOV was sat on a bench on The Esplanade in Bognor Regis, when he was stabbed. Officers responded to the scene and 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 5th April.

His next of kin have been informed and supported by specialist officers, and have issued the following statement:

"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.”

Andrii UZHYK. a 31 year old man who lives in Bognor Regis was arrested at his address at nearby Devonshire Road on Saturday 5th April on suspicion of murder.

The Crown Prosecution Service 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 Crawley Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday 8th April 2025.

Sussex Police 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 enquiries 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."

Please submit any information using the link below.