Control Freak Michael Reader Guilty of Cold-Blooded Murder of Wife Marion Price
Michael Raymond Reader, 70, from Northampton, has been found guilty of murdering his estranged wife, 63-year-old Marion Price. The shocking crime happened on December 15, 2019, and after a grueling eight-week trial at Northampton Crown Court, justice was served this week.
Eight Weeks of Abuse and Control Uncovered
The jury heard disturbing details of Reader’s relentless campaign of abuse during their marriage. Prosecutor Mary Loram QC blasted Reader as a “controlling husband” who made Marion’s life miserable with constant belittling and manipulation. She described the killing as a “cold, calculated murder” fuelled by his furious hatred over a £10,000 divorce settlement he was forced to pay.
“He was obsessed with money and did not want to part with it,” the prosecutor said.
- Reader took pleasure in humiliating his wife, even leaving her stranded in London for “embarrassing” him during a West End show.
- He installed a secret tracker on Marion’s car to spy on her after their split.
- His cruelty drained the “fun mum” Marion’s spirit, leaving her constantly anxious and scared.
Best Friend Stephen Welch Caught Up in Murder Plot
Reader didn’t act alone. His lifelong friend, 61-year-old Stephen Welch, was also found guilty of murder. Welch helped plan the attack, tracked Marion’s movements for months, and aided Reader’s escape after the fatal shooting.
He even disposed of Reader’s clothes in the River Nene to cover their tracks.
Cold-Blooded Killing Shocks Community
On that fateful night, Reader shot Marion through her car window, ending her life cruelly and unexpectedly. Paramedics and bystanders were powerless to save her.
Detective Chief Inspector Joe Banfield condemned Reader as a “manipulative, controlling bully” who couldn’t stand Marion reclaiming her freedom and happiness. He praised the police team for their relentless investigation and paid tribute to Marion’s family for their resilience throughout the trial.
“Michael Reader is a man obsessed with control. When Marion bravely walked away, he hunted her down. After being ordered to give her £10,000, he chose to end her life in cold blood.” – DCI Joe Banfield
Family Reacts: Justice Brings Some Comfort
Marion’s family expressed deep gratitude to the police and legal teams who brought the killers to account.
“Thanks to the tireless police work and the strong prosecution, we can now begin to heal. Justice has been served, and those responsible are locked away.” – Family statement
Both Reader and Welch await sentencing on Monday, December 21, where they face a lifetime behind bars for this brutal murder.
