Aristocrat and Partner Caught on CCTV Filling Petrol Bottle in Shocking Murder Trial
Jurors at the Old Bailey were shown CCTV today that appears to capture Constance Marten and Mark Gordon filling a water bottle with petrol. The couple faces manslaughter charges over the tragic death of their daughter, Victoria.
The Fateful Journey
Constance Marten, 36, a wealthy aristocrat, and her 49-year-old partner Mark Gordon stand accused of causing their daughter Victoria’s death. Prosecutors say the pair tried to dodge authorities by travelling across England in taxis and resorted to living rough in a tent on the South Downs.
Their flight ended on February 27 last year when police arrested them in East Sussex. Soon after, Victoria’s body was found stuffed in a Lidl bag inside an abandoned shed.
CCTV Footage Adds Gruesome Detail
The footage, dated January 12, shows a woman believed to be Marten lurking near a petrol pump at 6:30am. Wearing a navy coat, black trousers, and a hood covering her face, she filled a water bottle with petrol before entering a shop.
The trial also heard claims the couple were spotted buying snacks at a Texaco station that same night.
Neighbours Heard Crying Before Discovery
Local resident Sarah Hidden told the court she heard a baby crying for 30 to 40 minutes on two January nights near a golf course on the South Downs. She found it odd, given the terrible weather, including storms, which would have kept anyone indoors with a baby.
Mrs Hidden later thought she saw the couple herself while walking her dog along the coast. She described the woman as “depressed” and carrying heavy bags, possibly holding a baby, though she couldn’t confirm.
Initially, Mrs Hidden assumed the couple were in northern England but reported her sighting after hearing about police activity in Newhaven, East Sussex.
Serious Charges Laid
Marten and Gordon face a string of serious charges, including manslaughter by gross negligence, perverting the course of justice, concealing the birth of a child, child cruelty, and causing or allowing the death of a child. The trial continues to reveal the dark story behind Victoria’s death.
