Chelmsford Killer Sentenced to Life for Brutal Murder
Marek Hecko, 26, from Rookes Crescent, Chelmsford, was found guilty of murder at Chelmsford Crown Court on 13 March. Today, he was handed a life sentence with a minimum of 26 years behind bars.
Fatal Assault Sparks Major Investigation
The murder probe was launched by Essex and Kent Serious Crime Directorate on 25 July last year. Victim Adrian Ellingford, 44, was viciously assaulted at a home in Nelson Grove, Chelmsford.
As officers guarded the scene, a heavily drunk Hecko showed up carrying a brandy bottle. He claimed to know what happened and offered to help but soon became confrontational. He was arrested and quickly identified as the prime suspect.
Trial Exposes Stalking Motive and Lies
Specialist detectives worked through hundreds of leads before charging Hecko with murder.
During the trial starting 13 February, Hecko bizarrely claimed he arrived after seeing news coverage—though no reports existed at the time. Evidence revealed Adrian was with Hecko’s ex-partner the night of the attack, and Hecko had displayed stalking behaviour towards her.
Justice Served, Family Seeks Closure
The jury returned a unanimous guilty verdict yesterday. At sentencing, Detective Chief Inspector Louise Metcalfe said:
“From the moment this was declared a murder investigation, our team worked tirelessly to gather CCTV, statements and compile the evidence needed to charge Hecko. Despite the huge amount of work behind the scenes, supporting Adrian’s family was a priority. Our family liaison officers have done an incredible job from the start.”
She added, “This was a senseless attack on Adrian, which has left two children without a father. I hope they can now find some closure with Hecko behind bars.”
Adrian’s wife bravely read out a victim personal statement in court, calling him “an amazing husband, loving son, a caring brother, a friend to many and most importantly a truly brilliant father.”
