Bio

Roger Panes was born in 1933. He lived in Andover, Hampshire, England. Roger worked as a cattle dealer. He was part of a religious group called the Exclusive Brethren, a branch of the Plymouth Brethren. This group was known for its strict rules and discipline.

In November 1973, Roger was "shut up" by the other members of his church. This meant that they cut off contact with him because he had wrongfully shunned another member. His family was also encouraged to avoid him. Because of this, Roger could not sleep or eat with his wife and children.

In February 1974, Roger took an overdose of tablets and had to go to the hospital. After recovering from this, his mental state did not improve.

On March 4, 1974, he committed a tragic act against his family. This was a difficult time for Roger, and he felt increasingly isolated and troubled. Following these events, he took his own life the same day. A note was found, expressing his feelings about his situation. An inquest later ruled that he acted while his mind was disturbed.

Murder Story

On March 4, 1974, Roger Panes killed his family using an axe while they slept in their home. His victims included his wife Pamela, aged 39, and their three children: Graham, aged 7, Adrian, aged 4, and Angela, aged 6. After the murders, he took his own life by hanging himself from the stair bannisters using an electrical cable.

Authorities found a blood-stained axe at the scene. Detective Chief Inspector Stanley Atkinson led the investigation and discovered the bodies of Pamela and the children in different rooms of the house, all with severe head injuries.

A note written by Panes was found in the house. In it, he expressed feelings of being a wicked man and stated that the home should be left empty or demolished. He urged his family to seek mercy from God.

An inquest was conducted to examine the circumstances surrounding the killings. The jury concluded that Panes murdered his family and then committed suicide while his mind was disturbed.