Shot Devizes solicitor James Ward dies from injuries

A solicitor who was shot in the head with a sawn-off shotgun in Devizes has died from his injuries.

James Ward, 58, was left fighting for his life after a man walked into his office and shot him while he worked at his desk.

The married father of three, from Westbury, Wiltshire, was taken to hospital where his family maintained a bedside vigil since the shooting on July 2.

Wiltshire Police said Mr Ward died on Sunday in hospital.

Businessman Michael Chudley, 62, originally from Rowde, Wiltshire, has been charged with attempted murder.

Chudley, of no fixed address, will appear at Winchester Crown Court on September 24.

He is accused of the attempted murder of Mr Ward, making threats to kill Daphne Courtney, possession of a sawn-off shotgun with intent to cause fear of violence to Daphne Courtney and carrying a firearm with criminal intent to commit an indictable offence, namely murder.

Mr Ward was the principal solicitor of Morris, Goddard & Ward legal firm in St John's Street.

Detective Chief Inspector Ian Saunders said: "Our thoughts are with Jim's family and friends at this time."

Police said a post-mortem examination will take place later.

PA