A man has been found guilty of the murder of a beautician who tragically lost her life in a shooting outside a pub on Christmas Eve. The trial at Liverpool Crown Court described Elle Edwards' death as a "human tragedy in its purest and most appalling sense."
Connor Chapman, aged 23, initially denied responsibility, but a jury today delivered a guilty verdict for the murder of the 26-year-old victim. As the verdict was announced, Elle's father, Tim Edwards, fixed his gaze on Chapman in the dock, expressing his joy by punching the air. Other devastated family members burst into tears and cried "yes" upon hearing the verdicts.
Elle was fatally shot when Chapman opened fire outside the Lighthouse pub in Wallasey Village, Wirral, Merseyside, shortly before midnight on Christmas Eve. The prosecution, represented by Nigel Power KC, highlighted the significance of the trial, stating, "This is a trial that not just you twelve, but many, many people will never forget." The case represented a tragic instance of an innocent life being brutally ended amidst an ongoing feud between the Ford and Woodchurch estates.
Chapman, hailing from the Woodchurch estate, targeted individuals from the Ford or Beechwood estate, namely Jake Duffy and Kieran Salkeld, following a series of violent incidents involving both areas. Despite being served with an injunction aimed at curbing gang-related violence, Chapman demonstrated contempt for the order.
The prosecution emphasised the compelling nature of the CCTV evidence, specifically footage depicting the gunman, with long hair resembling Chapman's, discarding the weapon after the incident. Mark Rhind KC, Chapman's defense counsel, argued that the case against his client was primarily circumstantial.
In addition to the murder charge, Chapman was also found guilty of attempted murder, wounding with intent, assault occasioning actual bodily harm, possession of a Skorpion sub-machine gun with intent to endanger life, and possession of ammunition with intent to endanger life. Thomas Waring, Chapman's co-defendant, was convicted of possessing a prohibited weapon and assisting an offender.
Following the verdicts, Tim Edwards expressed relief, stating, "It just means he's off the streets, someone else is not going to suffer at the hands of him." Mr. Edwards acknowledged the emotional impact of the trial and Chapman's lack of remorse and regret. He highlighted the concerning escalation of violence in the feud, which resulted in his daughter's untimely death on a joyous occasion like Christmas Eve.
Looking ahead, Mr. Edwards expressed hopes for a positive legacy for Elle through the establishment of a foundation in her name, aimed at helping others. Detective Superintendent Paul Grounds, the senior investigating officer, characterised Chapman as a "dangerous and ruthless individual" who callously disregarded the lives of those present at the pub that fateful night.
