Father charged with rape and murder of estranged wife, ex-coach Kimberley Thompson

A 55-year-old man has been charged with rape and murder in connection with the death of his estranged wife, Kimberley Thompson, a former East Midlands coach of the year. Michael Thompon appeared at Northampton Magistrates' Court on Friday morning.

Kimberley Thompson, 43, was found dead at the couple's home on Pinewood Road in Northampton on August 9. Northamptonshire Police publicly identified her on Wednesday and said specially trained officers continue to support her family while investigators seek to determine what happened.

During a one-minute hearing Thompon confirmed his name and his address as Pinewood Road, Northampton. The chair of the bench, Claudia Wade, told him that the case would be transferred to Northampton Crown Court for a hearing the following day and that he would remain remanded in custody.

Kimberley Thompson was an award-winning coach who worked with Northants Basketball Club and was previously on Basketball England's talent pathway programme, which aims to guide players toward the national squad. Thompon and his alleged victim are believed to have two children together.

Neighbors described the couple as a quiet, close-knit family and expressed shock at the death. One neighbor recalled Kimberley as a very nice, down-to-earth person who was sporty and family-oriented, often with the children, while another said the children were absolutely smashing. Forensic officers were routinely seen at the property while police conducted their inquiry.

The investigation continues, with prosecutors preparing for a Crown Court hearing scheduled for 10 a.m. tomorrow.