Teen admits killing little sister, 15, at holiday park
A TEENAGER faces being jailed indefinitely after admitting killing his 15-year-old sister while on holiday at a caravan park.
Matthew Selby, 19, and younger sister Amanda were staying at Ty Mawr Holiday Park in Towyn, North Wales, last summer.
Officers were called to the family’s caravan on July 31 after reports of a “domestic disturbance”.
They found Amanda unconscious, not breathing and suffering asphyxia due to “neck compression”.
Selby was due to enter a plea yesterday before facing a murder trial in front of a jury at Mold Crown Court later this month.
But instead he pleaded guilty to manslaughter on the grounds of diminished responsibility and the case was adjourned for sentencing on March 18.
Loved
Selby, who appeared on a video link from Berwyn prison, Wrexham, denied murder.
Ian Unsworth QC, prosecuting, said the manslaughter plea was accepted based on psychiatric reports.
He said: “After widespread consultation with those instructing me and also the police, that’s an acceptable plea. It’s based on close analysis of the psychiatric reports and it is based upon diminished responsibility.”
Gordon Cole QC, defending, said a medical expert was due to see Selby again on Friday.
Judge Rhys Rowlands said: “I too have read the reports from both psychiatrists and plainly I understand the decision taken by the Crown.”
Coroner John Gittins said Amanda was declared dead by paramedics at 4.15pm and identified by her dad Anthony. Home Office pathologist Dr Brian Rodgers gave a cause of death as a result of neck compression,
external airway obstruction and crush asphyxia.
Amanda’s family, from Ashtonunder-Lyne, Greater Manchester, paid tribute to her, saying: “She was caring, thoughtful, liked to help others and very much loved. She will be very sadly missed.”
Her school Droylsden Academy said: “Amanda was a lovely student.”