A 27-year-old man accused of murdering three pensioners in Exeter has appeared in court today.
Alexander Lewis-Ranwell, from Croyde, north Devon, appeared at Exeter Magistrates' Court on Saturday.
He is charged with murdering Anthony Payne, 80, and twins Dick and Roger Carter, 84, between February 10 and 12.
Lewis-Ranwell is also accused of committing grievous bodily harm with intent on another man named John Ellis in Barnstaple on February 9.
He is also charged with committing grievous bodily harm with intent on a man named Stasys Belevicius in Exeter on February 11.
Magistrates sent the case to Exeter Crown Court, where Lewis-Ranwell will appear for a bail hearing on Monday.
Bearded Lewis-Ranwell, who was wearing a grey top, spoke throughout the hearing.
Prosecuting, Joanna Clark told magistrates: "I would invite you to send this matter to the crown court given the murder charges."
Katrina Byrne, representing Lewis-Ranwell, did not make any representations on his behalf.
Mr Routh, chair of the bench, told the defendant: "Mr Lewis-Ranwell, we are sending this matter to the crown court.
"You will be produced on Monday at 9.45 for a bail hearing and for a preliminary hearing on March 21 at Exeter Crown Court."
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