Pair face jail over ‘savage’ murder
AMAN and woman face lengthy jail sentences for murdering a man in Skelmersdale whose injuries were “among the worst seen” by police.
Eamon Brady, 44, was pronounced dead after Lancashire Fire and Rescue received a report of a fire at his home address in Elmridge, at about 7.30am on July 21 last year.
Inside the property, fire crews found Mr Brady with a number of injuries to his head and torso and a quilt placed on the lower part of his body, which was set alight.
A post mortem examination revealed that he had also suffered a number of stab wounds to his upper body and neck and significant injuries to his lower body from the fire.
Det Insp Lukmaan Mulla, of Lancashire police, said: “Mr Brady’s injuries were among the worst I have seen in my police career.
“My thoughts remain with his family and friends.”
Following a trial at Preston Crown Court, Deborah Andrews, 44, of Elmstead, Skelmersdale, was found guilty of murdering Mr Brady.
She was convicted of murder and arson with intent.
Last month, William Vaill, 37, from Evington, Skelmersdale, pleaded guilty to the same offence.
Det Insp Lukmaan Mulla said: “Vaill and Andrews are clearly extremely dangerous offenders and we welcome today’s decision at court. The pair targeted Mr Brady, knowing he was vulnerable.
“While a clear motive for the murder has never been established, what is clear is that they launched a vicious and prolonged attack, causing numerous, horrific injuries.”
Initial inquiries into the murder revealed that Mr Brady had been with Vaill and Andrews on July 20.
CCTV footage showed the pair leaving Mr Brady’s home at about 4.50am on July 21, carrying two bags.
They were traced to a nearby address by officers, where it was found they had sold several items belonging to Mr Brady, including a games console and sound system. Further items belonging to him were also found.
The pair were arrested and charged.
The defendants initially pleaded not guilty but Vaill changed his plea, also admitting a charge of arson with intent.
Both will be sentenced February 15.
Det Insp Lukmaan Mulla said: “Vaill and Andrews’s actions were wicked, cruel and savage.
“Both now face a significant period of time in prison.”