Murder suspect appears in dock accused of killing
THIS is the first picture of the suspect charged with murdering Cassie Hayes.
Andrew Burke, 30, appeared at Liverpool Crown Court yesterday morning.
Burke, of Vincent Street, St Helens, Merseyside, is accused of murdering 28-year-old Ms Hayes.
Ms Hayes - who is originally from Alnwick - was attacked inside the TUI travel agents, in Southport, while she was working there on Saturday, January 13.
She was treated at the scene and taken to Southport Hospital, where she died.
Burke - wearing a grey t-shirt and black tracksuit bottoms - stood straight ahead as the charges were read to him, while Ms Hayes’ family sat weeping in the public gallery.
Burke has been charged with murder and possessing an offensive weapon. He spoke only to confirm his name and address.
He will remain in custody, ahead of a trial set for Monday, July 2.
The judge, Clement Goldstone, QC, asked for a psychiatric report to be prepared. The next hearing will be on Monday, February 19.
A Home Office post-mortem examination showed Ms Hayes’ cause of death was shock and haemorrhaging as a result of a wound.
Ms Hayes moved from Northumberland to Merseyside a decade ago.
In a tribute issued via Merseyside Police, her partner, Laura Williams, said: “Cassie is my partner and words will not explain my sorrow and loss.
“She is the most amazing, gorgeous, selfless and strong person I know. She is my future wife and my forever.”
Ms Hayes’ family added: “Our whole lives have been shattered.
“This has torn our hearts from our bodies.
“Cassie was an amazing, kind human being who would do anything for anyone.
“She doted on all her family and our loss is beyond calculation.”