John Berry dialled 999 after attacking his wife Edna in their Clacton home just before 1pm on Tuesday, 21 February.
Emergency crews arrived to find the woman, in her 80s, suffering a serious head injury. She was rushed to hospital but sadly later died.
Berry, 85, of Turpins Close, Clacton, was charged with murder. He initially denied the charge and was set to stand trial at Chelmsford Crown Court on Wednesday, 8 November. But he suddenly pleaded guilty at the last moment.
Following a thorough investigation, Berry admitted to killing his wife. He is due to be sentenced at Chelmsford Crown Court on 5 January.
‘This is a tragic case’
Detective Chief Inspector Ant Alcock, who led the investigation, said:
“I want to offer my sincere sympathy to everyone affected by this tragedy. Edna’s family have been deeply shaken but have shown remarkable dignity throughout the investigation. My thoughts remain with them. Berry’s conviction doesn’t change the heartbreak this case brings.”
