A 27-year-old man has been sentenced to life in prison for the murder of a 26-year-old mother, who was fatally stabbed in a busy Ipswich street last summer.
Logan Burnett, of All Saints Road, Ipswich, was handed a minimum term of 24 years at Ipswich Crown Court today after pleading guilty in November to the murder of Courtney Mitchell.
The Attack
The fatal stabbing occurred on Tuesday, 6 August 2024, when police were called to Burrell Road at approximately 7:10 pm to reports of a woman being attacked.
Despite desperate attempts by members of the public and emergency services to save her life, Courtney Mitchell succumbed to her injuries shortly after being taken to hospital. A post-mortem examination confirmed she died from fatal stab wounds to the chest.
A History of Abuse and Threats
Courtney, a mother of three, had reportedly endured physical and verbal abuse from Burnett before the fatal attack, with friends revealing that she had received repeated threats to kill from him.
On the day of the attack, Burnett had attempted to contact Courtney 22 times within a five-hour period. He was also in contact with acquaintances, allegedly making direct threats against her life.
That evening, Courtney was walking with friends through the town when they spotted Burnett near Stoke Bridge. Realizing the danger, they attempted to flee, but Burnett caught up with them on Burrell Road, where he assaulted and fatally stabbed Courtney in front of multiple witnesses.
The Arrest
Burnett fled the scene, crossing the river to avoid detection. However, he was immediately identified as the suspect, and an urgent manhunt was launched.
The following morning, on 7 August, officers arrested Burnett at a house in northeast Ipswich. When confronted, he reportedly asked: “What, so she died?”.
He was formally charged with murder on 8 August and has remained in custody ever since.
Police Statement
Following the sentencing, Detective Superintendent Nicola Wallace described the attack as a “brutal and planned execution”, adding:
“This was a horrifying and senseless attack, carried out in front of innocent bystanders and the victim’s friends. Logan Burnett’s actions have devastated Courtney’s family, who now face a lifetime without their daughter, sister, and mother.”
She also reinforced Suffolk Police’s commitment to tackling domestic abuse, emphasizing the need for early intervention and greater awareness to prevent future tragedies.
Family’s Emotional Tribute
Courtney’s devastated family issued a heartfelt statement following the verdict:
“Although we got some form of justice today, it won’t bring Courtney back. No justice will ever be enough. She was a loving mother, daughter, sister, and friend. We have vowed to keep her memory alive and fight for change to protect other women from violent relationships.”
They also called for greater action against domestic violence and knife crime, stressing that “enough is enough”.
Community Shocked by the Tragedy
The attack sent shockwaves through the Ipswich community, prompting candlelight vigils and domestic violence awareness campaigns in Courtney’s memory. Many locals have expressed anger and frustration at the warning signs that were allegedly overlooked.
Call for Witnesses and Support
Suffolk Police continue to urge anyone experiencing domestic abuse to seek help.
Anyone with information about similar incidents or needing support can contact:
- Suffolk Police at 101 or via their website.
- Crimestoppers anonymously at 0800 555 111.
- Domestic violence helplines such as Refuge (0808 2000 247) for support.
Conclusion
While Burnett’s sentencing brings legal closure, Courtney’s family now faces a lifetime of grief. Her tragic death serves as yet another reminder of the urgent need to address domestic violence and protect victims before it’s too late.
