Godalming Son Sentenced After Killing His Mother in Horrific Stabbing
Nicholas Steel, 57, from Godalming, has been handed a hospital order after pleading guilty to manslaughter of his mother last October. The shocking attack happened at their home in Farncombe, leaving 79-year-old Mary Steel dead.
Stabbing Shocks Quiet Farncombe Neighbourhood
Police rushed to Wey Court at around 9.20am on Sunday, October 29, after a 999 call. Mary Steel was found in the hallway with fatal stab wounds to her neck. Despite paramedics’ efforts, she was pronounced dead at 10.10am.
Moments later, Nicholas Steel appeared with what police believe were self-inflicted injuries. He was arrested on suspicion of murder and taken to hospital before being moved to police custody.
Mental Health Disorder Behind Tragic Attack
At Guildford Crown Court on April 12, the judge ruled Steel suffered from a mental health disorder at the time and sentenced him under Section 37 of the Mental Health Act to a hospital order rather than prison.
The court heard Steel was battling depressive illness when he fatally attacked his mother.
Family and Police Speak Out
“This was an extremely tragic case, resulting in the unnecessary death of a woman who was well-liked and respected by those who knew her,” said Detective Chief Inspector Jo Hayes, who led the inquiry.
“I would also like to praise all emergency services who handled the incident with professionalism.”
Paying tribute, Mary Steel’s family said: “We are desperately sad at the tragic events that led to Mary’s death. She was a respected member of several churches in Godalming and a deeply religious person. She is greatly missed by family and friends.”
