Partner Jailed for Fatal Head Blows in Greenwich Tragedy
Ricky Woodford, 42, from Henwick Road SE9, faced the Old Bailey on Thursday, November 11, for sentencing after being convicted of manslaughter by diminished responsibility. His victim: his partner Sarah Smith, 39.
Body Discovered After Emergency Call
Police rushed to Henwick Road on the morning of October 30, 2020, after a welfare check raised alarm. They found Sarah Smith’s lifeless body at the scene. Woodford was arrested there on suspicion of murder and taken into custody.
Cause of Death: Head Injuries
A post-mortem at Greenwich Mortuary on November 1 confirmed Sarah died from head injuries. Authorities confirmed the heartbreaking circumstances behind the death that rocked the local community.
Detective Inspector Karen Bangs said: “Our thoughts continue to remain with Sarah’s family and friends at this very difficult time. We would like to thank them for their support during our investigation into this tragic incident, and we hope that following the conclusion of these proceedings they will now have the space they need to grieve.”
Heartbreaking Messages From Family
Sarah’s mother and daughter shared their grief in victim impact statements. The mother said:
“We have lost our beautiful daughter. The pain and realisation is almost unbearable because we will never get to share anything with her again. No parent should ever endure the heartache of losing a child in such violent circumstances.”
Her daughter added:
“Our world has been turned upside down into an almost unrecognisable place. We love you mum and we all miss you so much. This pain and heartache will never leave, it lives with us forever.”
