Thursday Murder Club, #1
The Thursday Murder Club
by Richard Osman
Contents
Chapter 28
Overview
Chris and Donna question Ian Ventham, who denies knowing the photograph but is caught revising Ian's story about an argument with Tony Curran. Ian offers a benign explanation for the dispute and an alibi involving Karen and Gordon Playfair, leaving the detectives with leads but no confession.
The chapter also shifts momentum back to Coopers Chase when Elizabeth summons the police with new information and the promise that Jason Ritchie will be present. Chris's irritation at being managed by pensioners reinforces the growing influence of the Thursday Murder Club on the official investigation.
Summary
Chris and Donna interview Ian Ventham at Ian's extravagant home about the photograph found near Tony Curran's body. Ian says Ian recognizes Tony and Jason Ritchie in the picture but claims Ian has never seen the photograph before.
Chris asks whether Ian and Tony had argued before Tony's death. Ian first denies any disagreement, but when Chris says there are witnesses, Ian changes his account and says Ian and Tony merely bickered over automatic sprinkler systems for the new flats. Ian presents the dispute as evidence of Ian's concern for safety rather than a motive.
Donna presses Ian about where Ian went after leaving Coopers Chase on the day of Tony's murder. Ian says Ian drove up the hill to meet Karen and Gordon Playfair, who own land there, and claims they can vouch for Ian's whereabouts.
As Donna and Chris leave, Donna receives a text from Elizabeth asking them to come to Coopers Chase because the Thursday Murder Club has information, with Jason Ritchie expected to be there. Chris resists being summoned by the residents and tells Donna to say the police will visit when they decide, though Donna doubts Elizabeth will accept that answer.
Who Appears
- Ian VenthamDeveloper questioned by police; denies knowing the photograph and explains away the argument with Tony.
- Chris HudsonDetective leading the interview, testing Ian's claims and resisting Elizabeth's attempt to direct police.
- Donna De FreitasPolice officer observing Ian closely, asking about Ian's movements, and receiving Elizabeth's message.
- ElizabethThursday Murder Club leader who texts Donna, claiming the club has information for the police.
- Tony CurranMurder victim whose photograph, argument with Ian, and building dispute are central to the interview.
- Jason RitchieBoxer in the photograph; Elizabeth says Jason will be at Coopers Chase with new information.
- Karen and Gordon PlayfairLandowners named by Ian as alibi witnesses for Ian's whereabouts after leaving Coopers Chase.