Paul Wagland: Police name woman charged with murder of ‘loving’ grandfather in Hartcliffe

A woman has been charged tonight (February 1) with the murder of a man who died at a flat in Hartcliffe, Avon and Somerset Police have said.

Sonja Blenkiron, 41, of Gatcombe Road, is accused of murdering 52-year-old Paul Wagland. A post-mortem examination has also concluded that Mr Wagland’s died from a single stab wound.

Blenkiron has been remanded in custody and will appear before Bristol Magistrates’ Court tomorrow.

The update from police came just hours after the family of Mr Wagland released a tribute to the grandfather. The statement read: “As a family we are devastated by the sudden loss of our loving Dad. He was artistic, caring, funny and ambitious. He was the best ‘Pap’ to his three grandchildren who he loved unconditionally.

“His love for cooking, music and dancing will live on through us forever. We will always cherish the memories we had with him. He will be missed by all his family and friends.

“We are very shocked about the circumstances of our Dad’s death and would appreciate some respect and privacy at this time.”

Police were called to the property in Gatcombe Road at around 3am on Monday. Mr Wagland was treated by emergency workers, but sadly died at the address, which is in a block of flats.

A murder investigation was launched, and tonight police said they had charged Blenkiron. In a statement, the force said: “We’ve charged a 41-year-old woman in connection with the death of a man in Hartcliffe, Bristol, on Monday (30 January).

“Sonja Blenkiron has been charged with the murder of 52-year-old Paul Wagland, who died at a property on Gatcombe Road.

“A post-mortem examination concluded the preliminary cause of death as a single stab wound.

“Blenkiron, of Gatcombe Road, remains in police custody and is due to appear at Bristol Magistrates’ Court tomorrow (Thursday 2 February).”