Victim In Bognor Regis Stabbing Named As Suspect To Appear In Court Charged With Murder

Published by Robert L Senior Reporter on Monday 7th April 2025 at 22:00hrs

Tributes are pouring in for 20-year-old Metodi Petrov Ivanov, who tragically died after being stabbed near the pier in The Esplanade, Bognor Regis, on Friday night.

Police have confirmed that a suspect has been charged with his murder.

Officers were called to the scene at approximately 9:40 PM on Friday, April 4th, following reports of a stabbing. Mr. Ivanov, a resident of Bognor Regis, sustained fatal stab wounds and was rushed to the Royal Sussex County Hospital in Brighton.

Sadly, he succumbed to his injuries in the early hours of Saturday, April 5th.

Mr. Ivanov’s family, who are being supported by specialist officers, released a heartfelt statement expressing their devastation.

“We are devastated at the loss of our beloved Metodi,” they said. “He was a good, kind boy who had a bright future ahead of him. He was good to everyone and liked by people of all nationalities, and he was particularly caring with all of his nieces, nephews and family.

We cannot believe what has happened and Metodi will be dearly missed by all who knew him.”

Sussex Police swiftly launched an investigation, leading to the arrest of 31-year-old Andrii Uzhyk at his home in nearby Devonshire Road on Saturday, April 5th.

He was taken into custody on suspicion of murder.

The Crown Prosecution Service has since authorised charges against Uzhyk, including murder, two counts of possession of a bladed article, and two counts of criminal damage.

He has been remanded in custody and is scheduled to appear at Brighton Magistrates’ Court for an initial hearing on Tuesday, April 8th.

Superintendent Imran Asghar of Sussex Police addressed the community, stating,

“Our focus remains on establishing exactly how and why this tragic incident occurred, and we are committed to seeking justice for Metodi’s family and friends.”

He reassured the public about the ongoing police presence in the area as enquiries continue.

“The public can expect to see a police presence in the area as our enquiries continue, and I’d like to reassure the community that a suspect has been arrested and charged in connection with this matter, and a knife seized.”

Superintendent Asghar also appealed for further information from the public.

“We’re still urging anyone who saw what happened or captured anything on camera to please come forward.

You can report it online or call 101, quoting Operation Rudgwick.

You can also contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or report it online at http://www.crimestoppers-uk.org.”

The tragic death of Metodi Ivanov has sent shockwaves through the Bognor Regis community, with many expressing their condolences to his family and friends.