Dad Stabbed 20 Times in Deadly Home Attack Over Child Custody Battle
Frenzied Murder Shocks Quiet Village
Lance Woollard, 65, launched a brutal attack on 35-year-old Nigel Ebbage at his home in Honeysuckle Close, Wimblington, near March. On the morning of April 29, Woollard stabbed Mr Ebbage 20 times, leaving his lifeless body sprawled at the bottom of the stairs.
Police Arrest Suspect with Bloodied Hands
Mr Ebbage’s partner returned for lunch around noon and made the horrific discovery. She immediately called police. Officers caught Woollard on the March by-pass at about 1.30pm, spotting blood on his hands and the steering wheel. Forensics later found Woollard had sliced off one of his own fingertips at the crime scene.
Custody Dispute Turned Deadly
The killing came just days before a crucial court hearing was set to decide contact arrangements between Mr Ebbage, Woollard’s daughter, and their two children. The children had lived with their mother since Mr Ebbage and Woollard’s daughter split in 2016.
Woollard refused to answer police questions but pleaded guilty to murder last month. Today at Cambridge Crown Court, Judge David Farrell sentenced him to jail.
Detective’s Statement on the Tragic Killing
“Lance Woollard knew Nigel was home alone and targeted him with the clear intent to murder,” said Detective Inspector Dale Mepstead. “Despite Nigel trying desperately to defend himself, the fatal chest wounds proved too severe.
“This loss has devastated everyone who knew Nigel. While nothing will ease their pain, I hope today’s sentencing brings some comfort knowing justice has been served.”
Background of Legal Battles and Past Accusations
Before the murder, Mr Ebbage faced serious accusations after a fire at his ex-partner’s home. Arrested and charged with arson in June 2018, he was acquitted in 2019. Following this, he regained contact with his children, but a court order forbade Woollard from being present during handovers.
The fatal attack halted a court hearing that aimed to settle future parenting arrangements.
