Home » Mother of two killed by Carmarthenshire man who denies murder

Mother of two killed by Carmarthenshire man who denies murder

THE TRIAL of Richard Jones, accused of killing 30-year-old mother of two Sophie Evans in Llanelli last year, opened at Swansea Crown Court. Jones, 50, from Burry Port, Carmarthenshire, has admitted manslaughter but denies the charge of murder.

On Friday morning (Jul 5, 2024), Ms Evans had dropped her children at school before returning home, where she was to meet the defendant. The court heard that Jones had been performing odd jobs for Ms Evans.

Brutal attack detailed

Prosecutor Michael Jones KC described the brutal attack that led to Ms Evans’ death. The court was told that Jones physically assaulted Ms Evans before strangling her. Her body was found wrapped in a bath towel, face down on the kitchen floor. A post-mortem examination confirmed she died from neck compression.

The victim had significant injuries, including defensive wounds, which indicated she fought back during the attack.

Jones later admitted to police that he killed Ms Evans, claiming he lost his temper after believing she was involved in a financial scam targeting his son. He reportedly told officers he felt he was “being taken advantage of financially” and described himself as having a “short fuse.”

CCTV and phone evidence presented

The court also heard evidence of Jones’ actions after the killing. CCTV footage captured him arriving at Ms Evans’ home and later leaving hurriedly. He was seen purchasing food at a bakery before returning to his home in Burry Port.

Telecommunications evidence further implicated him, including a phone call to his ex-partner, Tracey Thompson, in which he confessed to the killing. Thompson alerted the police.

Following his arrest, Jones remained calm but claimed to have taken an overdose. He was hospitalised for four days before police interviews revealed his growing frustration over financial matters, including allegations that he had been “scammed” by his son.

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Family pays tribute

Ms Evans, mother to two young daughters, was remembered by her family in a heartfelt tribute.

“Our beautiful and amazing sister and daughter Sophie was tragically taken from us, and our lives will never be the same. We are heartbroken by our loss. Our Sophie, only 30 years young, will be greatly missed by us all.

“She was a loving mother to her two girls, who she adored with all her heart. An amazing sister, who was the rock of our family. So bright and funny, always making us laugh. Sophie was a loving daughter, with a huge heart, who we all adored. She lived life to the fullest and will be remembered for being so kind and caring to her loved ones.”

Trial adjourned

The trial has been adjourned and will resume on Wednesday morning.

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