- Charles Kinston, 23, was killed in the countryside while working
Detectives have launched a murder investigation after a young farmer was shot dead in a field.
Charles Kinston, 23, was killed in the countryside while working on land in a quaint village.
The shock death has led to an outpouring of grief from family, friends and those within the East Midlands farming community, of which he was a popular member.
A man in his 30s, known to Mr Kinston, has been arrested on suspicion of murder. Sources say he was ‘full of life’ and had ‘not an enemy in the world’.
The horrific incident happened in the village of Bretby, on the Derbyshire and Leicestershire border, where the average house sells for around £450,000.
Mr Kinston was shot while working in a field located off Brizlincote Lane, MailOnline understands. The land was not owned by him but was near to his own farm.
Charles Kinston (pictured) was killed in the countryside while working in the village of Bretby, on the Derbyshire and Leicestershire border
Mr Kinston was shot while working in a field located off Brizlincote Lane, MailOnline understands. This is a general view of the surrounding area
Mr Kinston had won awards for his farming. In 2020, his off-road milk float took third place in the Farmers Weekly inventions competition for the Land Rover Discovery 1 300Tdi which he had modified to do his calf feeding rounds in.
A spokesperson for Derbyshire police said: ‘We were alerted to an incident at 6:28pm on 29th January in which a man had been fatally shot in a field in Bretby.
‘Charles Kinston, 23, was pronounced dead at the scene.
‘A second man, in his 30s, was arrested at the scene on suspicion of murder, and has been released on bail as enquiries continue.’
DCI Matt Croome, from the East Midlands Major Crime Team, said: ‘We understand that this incident has had a significant impact on Mr Kinston’s family, friends and the wider community.
‘Due to the ongoing investigation, we are limited about the information that can be passed to the public at this time. However, I want to be clear that the two individuals involved in this incident are known to one another, and officers have mitigated any risk to the wider public at this time.
Mr Kinston’s family business was EH Kinston and Son. This photo from 2019 shows his cows crossing into Burton – forcing police to cordon the area off
The amusing scenes in 2019 happened when the cows escaped from their usual field
‘Any further updates will be passed as soon as the investigation allows.’
A source said: ‘This is a complete tragedy. It’s horrific.
‘It has sent shock waves through the farming community.
‘He was working when it happened. There are so many questions to answer it’s unreal.’
A post on the Leicestershire & Rutland Young Farmers Facebook page said: ‘Charles Kinston, WHAT A CHARACTER!
‘We are devastated and saddened to announce his life was tragically taken from him. A highly thought of member of Netherseal YFC for over 12 years.
A man who is known to Charles has been arrested by officers on suspicion of murder. Pictured: A map showing the location of Bretby village
‘The source of laughter for a strong club, Charles prided himself on enthusiasm and passion for everything he put his mind to! A man with a comeback for any witty comment, who devoted his love to everyone around him especially his beloved side kick Beth and son, Albert.
‘The Kinston family wish to have their privacy respected at this difficult time, however they know Charles had many memories around the county. If anyone has fond memories or humorous times with Charles they would be comfortable sharing, the family would enjoy reading and seeing photo’s of these in the comments.
‘If anyone has been affected by Charles’ death and needs some additional support please do not hesitate to contact the County Office or our friends at FCN or RABI.’
His sister Hannah Davies wrote on Facebook: ‘My brother had the best times of his life through young farmers and those he met through the organisation.’
