Suspect charged with murder after former Chesterfield man stabbed to death in Reading park

Friends David Wails, 49, James Furlong, 36, and Joe Ritchie-Bennett, 39, all died in Forbury Gardens last Saturday. The incident was later declared terrorist-related.

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Khairi Saadallah, 25, has been charged with three counts of murder and three counts of attempted murder, Thames Valley Police said on Saturday.

Mr Saadallah, of Basingstoke Road, Reading, is due to appear before magistrates on Monday.

The parents of Mr Wails – who attended St Mary’s Catholic High School in Chesterfield – described him as a ‘kind and much-loved son, brother and uncle who never hurt anyone in his life’.

They added: “We are brokenhearted at losing him and in such a terrible way.

“We will treasure our wonderful memories of him and he will always be with us in our hearts.”

St Mary’s Catholic High School also paid tribute to him, saying: “David joined St Mary’s in 1986, having moved from the north east with his family.

“He completed his A levels and left school in 1988 when he went on to pursue a career in science.

“David completed his PhD at the University of York and was working as a senior scientist at the global chemicals company Johnson Matthey.”

A statement from Johnathan Matthey read: “Dave was proud to use his expertise to make a positive impact on the world. He was a well-liked colleague who will be much missed.

“He was a gentle, thoughtful man with a dry sense of humour.

“He is recognised by his friends at Johnathan Matthey for being an excellent coach, supporting colleagues both professionally and personally.

“Our thoughts and sympathies are with Dave’s family and friends during this difficult time. He will be deeply missed by everyone here.”

Three other people were hurt in the tragedy and have since left hospital, according to police.

Counter Terrorism Policing South East continues to lead the investigation.

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