In a harrowing murder trial, the court has heard disturbing details of the torture and...

Published: 11:22 am December 3, 2023
Updated: 11:18 am October 8, 2025
Horrific Murder Trial: Woman Subjected to Torture Before Being Found Dead in Hanwell Flat

In a harrowing murder trial, the court has heard disturbing details of the torture and murder of Shakira Spencer, whose body was discovered in her flat in Hanwell, west London. The gruesome discovery was made on September 25, 2022, after a neighbour noticed maggots crawling from under her front door.

Details of the Crime

Shakira Spencer was reportedly subjected to extreme forms of torture, including being starved, burned with a blowtorch, and having boiling water thrown over her. In a final act of cruelty, she was locked in a cupboard where she eventually died.

Discovery of the Body

The grim discovery of Ms Spencer’s body was made after neighbours became alarmed by the presence of maggots crawling from under her door, leading to the authorities being notified.

Accused of the Murder

Three individuals, Shaun Pendlebury, 26, of Tewkesbury Road, Ealing; Ashana Studholme, 38, of Greenhill Road, Harrow; and Lisa Richardson, 44, of Broomcroft Avenue, Ealing, are accused of carrying out this heinous act. The court heard allegations that the trio put Ms Spencer in the boot of a car, drove her to her flat on Holbeck Road, and then locked her in a cupboard.

Charges and Denials

Pendlebury, Studholme, and Richardson all deny the charges of murder and preventing a lawful burial. The trial unfolds with the accused maintaining their innocence in the face of these severe allegations.

Ongoing Trial

The trial continues to unravel the events leading to Ms Spencer’s tragic death, with the prosecution presenting its case against the three accused. The details emerging from the trial are causing shock and outrage in the community.

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