DNA of Murder Suspect Discovered on Victim’s Undergarments

A court was informed that DNA belonging to Brian Whitelock, 57, who stands accused of murdering 71-year-old Wendy Buckney, was discovered on the victim’s underwear. Mr. Whitelock is alleged to have used a knife, a table leg, and shelving components in the fatal attack on his neighbor, a retired riding instructor, in Clydach, Swansea, during August 2022. Nevertheless, the source of a minute quantity of sperm cells, identified through distinct vaginal swabs collected from Ms. Buckney – who was discovered unclothed and covered by a jacket – could not be definitively determined. Mr. Whitelock has pleaded not guilty to murder but has confessed to manslaughter, citing diminished responsibility. Neil Wilson, a forensic scientist, additionally testified at Swansea Crown Court that an analysis of blood pooling and splatter within Ms. Buckney’s one-bedroom flat on Tan y Coed Road suggested she sustained blows while either on the floor or in close proximity to it. Furthermore, diluted blood was detected on the bathroom sink and cabinet, and tests performed on the taps also yielded a positive indication of blood. Mr. Whitelock, 57, who is representing himself in court, previously stated: “I am not denying I am responsible for the death of Wendy Buckney.” These remarks were made during his cross-examination of the detective who conducted his interview and subsequently charged him with murder. When detailing his medical state during police interviews, Mr. Whitelock asserted: “I was pumped full of diazepam and rolling around.” He added: “The court needs to see the CCTV evidence – I had no idea of what I was saying.” He further accused the officer and his colleagues of laughing at him while he was in custody, telling the officer: “You all thought it was funny.” The defendant was convicted in 2001 for the killings of two men, one of whom was his brother, and had been released from prison after completing a life sentence. In 2000, he murdered Nicky Morgan, 34, by striking him on the head with either a pickaxe or a hammer following an argument fueled by alcohol and drugs at his residence in Blaenymaes, Swansea. Subsequently, he ignited the property, resulting in the death of his brother Glenn, who was asleep inside. The proceedings are ongoing.