Flatmate Stabbed Victim to Death in Macclesfield Tragedy
Andrew Anderson plunged a knife into Peter Kirkham’s chest inside their Stirling Close home before dialing for paramedics at 2am on 23 September 2020. The 35-year-old killer tried to claim Peter had harmed himself, but the truth was far darker.
Evidence Unravels Anderson’s Lies
A knife found next to Peter was not the murder weapon. Anderson had thrown the real knife over a nearby fence hours earlier. For months, he subjected 45-year-old Peter to brutal attacks, including blunt force trauma and knife wounds that didn’t match self-inflicted injuries.
Peter’s death came after a harrowing period of control and physical abuse. Anderson isolated him from family and friends, stripping him of independence.
Guilty Verdict After 16-Day Trial
After a grueling 16-day trial at Chester Crown Court, a unanimous jury found Anderson guilty of murder on Friday 21 May. He was promptly sentenced to life imprisonment, with a minimum of 18 years behind bars.
The abuse began soon after Anderson moved in with Peter in July 2019. The pair knew each other through Anderson’s sister, and Anderson often called Peter his ‘cousin’.
Control, Manipulation and Final Moments
- Anderson took over Peter’s phone, inserting his own SIM and claiming Peter was busy.
- He drained Peter’s finances by using his bank and credit cards.
- Peter had no income and was sometimes forced to shoplift for Anderson.
- On the night of the murder, Anderson claimed he was asleep until 1.45am but was actually texting others throughout the evening.
- Peter was likely killed between 5pm on 22 September and 2am the next day.
Police and Family Speak Out
Detective Sergeant Helen Tennyson said: “It is a deeply sad and tragic case. Anderson was a volatile man who controlled Peter, preventing him from living independently. He physically abused and isolated him.”
“Even on the day he took Peter’s life, Anderson tried to cover his tracks by fabricating stories.”
“Peter was trapped in a terrifying situation he couldn’t escape.”
“I hope today’s verdict brings some closure to Peter’s family.”
Paul Kirkham, Peter’s brother, added: “We thank Cheshire Constabulary for their support and the thorough investigation. Thanks to DC Craig Stevens for keeping me informed throughout. Justice has finally been served for Peter’s tough last months. Now he can rest in peace.”
DS Tennyson urged anyone facing abuse to seek help: “Coercive control and physical abuse can happen to anyone, anywhere. It’s hard to speak out for fear of reprisals, but support is available. Please reach out if you or someone you know is suffering.”
