Man Found Guilty of Murder After Brutal Attack in Stirling Close Home
Andrew Anderson stabbed Peter Kirkham in the chest inside their Stirling Close home before calling paramedics at 2am on Wednesday, 23 September 2020. Despite Anderson’s claim that Peter had hurt himself, forensic evidence proved otherwise.
Knife Not at Scene Was the Murder Weapon
The knife found next to Peter’s body wasn’t the fatal weapon. Anderson had actually thrown the real murder knife over a nearby fence earlier that evening. Police revealed Peter, 45, suffered a savage assault involving blunt force trauma and inconsistent self-inflicted wounds.
Control, Abuse, and Isolation Led to Tragic Death
- Anderson, 35, subjected Peter to sustained abuse and isolation from family and friends.
- The pair began living together in July 2019, with Anderson calling Peter his “cousin.”
- He controlled Peter’s phone by swapping his own SIM card and managed Peter’s finances, even using his bank accounts.
- Financially strapped, Anderson coerced Peter into shoplifting to support him.
Jury Delivers Guilty Verdict After 16-Day Trial
Following a 16-day trial at Chester Crown Court, a unanimous jury found Anderson guilty of murder on Friday 21 May. He was sentenced to life imprisonment, with a minimum of 18 years behind bars.
Peter’s brother described the difficulty in contacting him during Anderson’s control, highlighting how isolated Peter had become.
Anderson’s Lies Fail as Phone Data Exposes Truth
On the night of the murder, Anderson claimed he was asleep and woke at 1.45am to find Peter unresponsive. However, phone records revealed Anderson was texting and talking to multiple contacts late into the night. Peter is believed to have died between 5pm on 22 September and the early hours of 23 September.
Detective and Family Speak Out After Verdict
“It is a deeply sad and tragic case and my thoughts remain with Peter’s family and friends,” said Detective Sergeant Helen Tennyson.
“Anderson was a volatile man who controlled and abused Peter, isolating him from loved ones. Even on the day he killed Peter, Anderson tried to cover his tracks.”
Peter’s brother Paul Kirkham added: “We thank Cheshire Constabulary for their support and thorough investigation. Special thanks to DC Craig Stevens, our family support officer, who helped us through this case.”
“Justice has been served, and now Peter can find peace in heaven.”
Warning on Coercive Control and Abuse
DS Tennyson urged anyone facing abuse to seek help. “Coercive control and physical abuse can happen to anyone. Victims often fear speaking out. But support is available.”
If you or someone you know is in a similar situation, don’t suffer in silence. Reach out to local authorities or support services.
