Bognor Regis Man Has Died In Hospital Following Burn Injuries

A man who received burn injuries in an assault in Bognor Regis has died in hospital.

Mark Stoakes, 60, received medical treatment following an incident in Oak Grove on April 8, but police have announced that he lost his life in hospital on Friday, April 30.

Officers were called to Oak Grove around 8.15pm on Thursday, 8 April, following reports of a deliberate fire in the front garden of a property.

The district commander for Sussex Police, Chief Inspector Jon Carter said:

"This was a horrific incident that would have shocked many in the community and I extend my condolences to Mark Stoakes’ family and friends.

"The investigation team have worked tirelessly and a man has been charged and is awaiting trial.

“Together with our partners we are working hard to tackle crime, and particularly violent crime, in Arun.

"We are refocusing our patrols to provide additional visibility in key areas to combat this."

Aaron Wilks, 37, unemployed, of Ash Grove, Bognor Regis, will appear at Portsmouth Crown Court on 7 May to face a string of charges.

At the moment, he is accused of grievous bodily harm, arson, and an offence related to causing injury by starting a fire.

He was also charged with criminal damage, blackmail and possession of a bladed article in relation to two separate incidents. 

Following the death of Mr Stoakes, Sussex Police said today (May 2) that officers are in liaison with the Crown Prosecution Service in relation to the current charges.