Woman Stabs Ex-Husband to Death in Drunken Row
Tanya Hoskin, 52, plunged a knife into her ex-husband Nigel Johnston’s chest in their kitchen just after Christmas 2020. The 54-year-old collapsed after a single deep stab wound and died despite emergency surgery at the scene.
Explosive Temper Flared ‘At The Flick of a Switch’
At Exeter Crown Court, it emerged Hoskin had a fierce temper, unleashing violent outbursts over trivial matters, then blacking out. She pleaded not guilty to murder but was convicted of manslaughter after the jury ruled she didn’t intend to kill or cause serious harm.
She also admitted to attacking four emergency workers while in police custody. Today, Hoskin was locked up for 10 years.
Fatal Fight Followed Gin-Fuelled Evening
The deadly row happened on December 27, 2020, after the couple drank gin at their home in Tennyson Way. Around 9pm, a drunken Hoskin called her sister, claiming Nigel had tried to bite her. The horrifying attack then unfolded live on the phone.
Hoskin grabbed a large kitchen knife and stabbed Nigel. Both she and her sister dialled 999. Hoskin later told ambulance staff she had stabbed him three times, then flagged down a neighbour, loudly admitting what she’d done.
Battered Partner Dies on Street While Hoskin Gets Arrested
Nigel was found barely alive on the kitchen floor. Neighbour and Hoskin tried CPR while the sister sobbed, apologising and professing love. Paramedics and police arrived; Hoskin, reportedly “extremely intoxicated,” told officers Nigel had attacked her, justifying her stabbing.
A doctor performed emergency surgery on the roadside, but Nigel died shortly after at 9.50pm. Hoskin was arrested and taken into custody. News of Nigel’s death saw her confess repeatedly, but she lashed out violently, assaulting three officers.
Volatile Relationship Marked by Abuse and Mental Illness
The couple married in 1989, separated in 1993, then reunited seven years ago with Hoskin caring for Nigel due to his poor health. Their relationship was volatile, fuelled by alcohol and tempers.
Hoskin’s defence highlighted her complex PTSD and Emotionally Unstable Personality Disorder, and past abuse by Nigel, including a choking incident. Despite this, the jury rejected her claim of self-defence.
“This has been a very sad and tragic case,” said Detective Sergeant Samantha Wenham. “I hope the family will find some comfort with today’s outcome.”
