A MURDER suspect was on the run when he allegedly stabbed a man to death, a court heard.

A warrant had been issued for the arrest of Kevin Paddick two months before Danny Myers died.

Unemployed Paddick, 34, of Rosemary Road, Clacton, appeared at Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court yesterday and was charged with murder.

He did not enter a plea and was remanded into custody to appear at Chelmsford Crown Court today.

Police were called to Rochford Road, St Osyth at about 4.45am on Monday.

Officers tried to save the life of Mr Myers, from Enfield, when they arrived.

A spokesman for Essex Police said: “Officers carried out cardiopulmonary resuscitation on the victim until the ambulance service arrived, adding: “He was taken to hospital where he sadly died a short time later.”

An ambulance spokesman said: “We dispatched a rapid response vehicle, ambulance crew and ambulance officer to assist.

“A man was treated for a chest and neck injury before being taken to Colchester General Hospital in a critical condition.”

A post-mortem examination revealed the cause of death was a stab wound to his heart.

His devastated family have paid an emotional tribute to Mr Myers.

In a statement, they said: “The family are devastated and in shock. They can’t believe what’s happened.

“Danny was a good boy, a loving son, brother, dad and partner.”

Paddick appeared in the dock, flanked by security, in prison red having spent the night in custody.

The unshaven suspect spoke to confirm his name, address and date of birth.

No plea to the murder charge was entered.

In a separate matter, but during a joint hearing, Paddick denied one count of assault by beating, allegedly committed on November 5 on a woman.

He also denied one count of criminal damage after allegedly smashing her 49 inch television on the same day.

Paddick admitted failing to answer bail at Clacton police station on December 6.

He also admitted failing to attend at Colchester Magistrates’ Court to enter pleas on January 17.

It was then a warrant for his arrest was issued.

However, he had not been returned to court until yesterday.

Paddick will go on trial at Colchester Magistrates’ Court, via video link, on April 10.

He was remanded into custody for these matters by District Judge Susan Holdham.

No bail application was made on the murder charge at Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court.

Short haired Paddick, who was supported by four family members and friends at court, shouted “See you later” and “Get me some bits” as he was taken back to the cells.

Sentencing for failing to answer bail and failing to appear at court has been delayed.

His supporters yelled back “We love you” from the public gallery.

A 29-year-old woman from Clacton, who was arrested on suspicion of murder on Monday, has since been released from custody without charge.