Father-of-Six Found Dead in Kettering Flat.
A 45-year-old Northampton man has appeared in court charged with the murder of 71-year-old John Boyle, a father-of-six found dead in his Kettering flat.
45-Year-Old Man Charged with Murder Appears in Court.
45-year-old man has appeared in court charged with the murder of a 71-year-old father-of-six whose body was discovered in a flat in Northamptonshire earlier this month.
John Mills, of Marriott Street, Northampton, was remanded in custody following his appearance at Northampton Magistrates’ Court on Thursday. He is accused of killing John Boyle, 71, whose body was found in his Kettering home on November 8.
Discovery of the Victim
Police were called to Leatherland Court in Kettering at approximately 6:30 p.m. after receiving reports of concern for Mr Boyle’s welfare. Upon entering the flat, officers discovered his body.
Mr Boyle, a father-of-six and grandfather to fifteen, was described by his family as a “gentle and generous soul whose love and kindness touched everyone who knew him.”
In a statement released through Northamptonshire Police, his family said:
“No words can capture the pain we feel, but we want everyone to remember him not for how he died, but for how he lived – with love, humility, and dedication to his family.”
The Accused and Charges
Following an investigation by Northamptonshire Police, John David Martin Mills, 45, was charged with murder and theft of a motor vehicle in connection with the incident.
Three other individuals — a 42-year-old man and two women aged 27 and 35 — were also arrested but have since been released on police bail pending further enquiries.
During Thursday’s court appearance, Mills spoke only to confirm his name, age, and address. No pleas were entered at this stage.
Upcoming Proceedings
Mills has been remanded in custody and is due to appear before a judge at Northampton Crown Court on Friday for a preliminary hearing. The case is expected to be transferred to the Crown Court for further proceedings and the setting of a potential trial date.
Northamptonshire Police have confirmed that the investigation remains ongoing and have appealed for anyone with information to come forward.
Community Impact
The death of John Boyle has deeply affected the local community in Kettering. Residents of Leatherland Court have expressed shock and sadness, describing the area as typically quiet and close-knit.
As the investigation continues, the family’s request remains simple — that the public remember John Boyle for his life, not the tragic circumstances of his death.
Sources
- Northamptonshire Police. “Man Charged with Murder Following Death in Kettering Flat.” Press release, November 2025.
- BBC News. “Man Charged with Murder After Death of Kettering Grandfather.” Published November 2025.
- Northampton Chronicle & Echo. “John Mills Appears in Court Charged with Murder of 71-Year-Old John Boyle.” November 2025.
