A murder investigation has been initiated following the demise of a convicted stepfather in prison. The incident unfolded yesterday at HMP Wakefield when authorities were alerted to the death of a prisoner identified as Kyle Bevan, aged 33. Bevan had been incarcerated for the murder of Lola James, his partner’s daughter, at her residence in Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire.
West Yorkshire Police confirmed the launch of a murder inquiry. Three individuals, aged 45, 57, and 63, have been detained on suspicion of murder and are currently in police custody.
Detective Chief Inspector James Entwistle of the Homicide and Major Enquiry Team stated, “Following an extensive investigation into Mr. Bevan’s demise, we are treating this as a murder case. Our focus is on unraveling the complete circumstances, and we are actively questioning the three individuals in custody. The family is being kept informed as our inquiry unfolds.”
Lola James suffered severe injuries, likened by medical professionals to those sustained in a high-speed car collision, with 101 scratches and bruises on her small body, along with indications of weapon use.
Tragically, Lola’s death occurred shortly after Bevan, a known drug user, moved into the residence following a brief interaction with Lola’s mother, Sinead James, on Facebook.
Initially, Bevan claimed that Lola’s injuries were accidental, attributing them to a fall down the stairs caused by the family dog. However, further examination revealed that Lola had sustained 101 injuries, including critical brain trauma and severe retinal damage.
Despite Bevan’s denial of the murder charges, he was convicted in 2023. Lola passed away at Withybush Hospital four days after the incident, on July 21, 2020, without regaining consciousness.
