Pictured: Uni scholar, 21, discovered stabbed to loss of life in backyard – as housemate, 23, is charged with homicide

A university student found stabbed to death in his garden has been pictured for the first time – after a housemate was charged with his murder.

The body of Jamie Collins, 21, was discovered in a house share in Filton, south Gloucestershire after police were called to the property in the early hours of Thursday.

Zack Coughlan, 23, was arrested on Sunday and has been charged with his housemate’s murder. 

He has been remanded in custody and is due to appear at Bristol Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday.

Both men were students at the University of the West of England, with Mr Collins studying robotics and described as an active member of student societies..

Mr Collins’s family have been informed of his death by Avon and Somerset Police and are being supported by specialist officers.

A spokesperson for the University of the West of England said: ‘The university is deeply shocked by the news of our student Jamie’s death in such distressing circumstances.

‘Our thoughts are with Jamie’s family at this extremely sad time.

The body of Jamie Collins, pictured, was found in a house share in Filton, Bristol, after police were called to the property in the early hours of Thursday

Forensics pictured on Sunday near the scene where the student’s body was found

‘As well as studying robotics, Jamie was also an active member of student societies at UWE Bristol.

‘The university will support students who studied with Jamie and staff directly affected by his death.

‘We have been liaising closely with the police to support their investigation.’

Officers are carrying out high visibility patrols in the area to reassure the public and have also been cooperating with the university.

Detective Chief Inspector Lucy Edgeworth, of the Major Crime Investigation Team, said: ‘The Crown Prosecution Service has authorised a murder charge against Zack Coughlan.

‘The formal identification process has not yet been completed but we are releasing Jamie’s name at this point, with his family’s knowledge, because it will form part of the court proceedings and be a matter of public record.

‘Our thoughts are with Jamie’s family at this hugely difficult time and specially-trained officers are offering them support and keeping them regularly updated with our investigation. We would politely ask people continue to respect their privacy.’

DCI Edgeworth added: ‘People who knew Jamie will be understandably shocked and hugely saddened to learn of what has happened.

‘Neighbourhood officers have been carrying out high-visibility patrols in the area over recent days and are working closely with staff at the University of the West of England, where both men were students, to ensure support is in place for those who need it.

‘Further enquiries are planned in the area around Cleve Road over the coming days. 

‘We are grateful to people living in the area for their patience and understanding while we continue to carry out this investigative work.’