Tragic Death Rocks Quiet Wigan Neighbourhood
Shock hit Shevington, Wigan, on November 24, 2022, when Liam Smith, 38, father of two, was found dead at the bottom of his driveway on Kilburn Drive. The horror sparked a murder trial at Manchester Minshull Street Crown Court.
Accused Admits Manslaughter But Denies Murder
Michael Hillier, 39, from Ecclesall Road, Sheffield, confessed to manslaughter but denied murder. He admitted his role in Mr Smith’s death. Meanwhile, co-defendant Rachel Fulstow, 37, from Andrew Drive in York, pleaded not guilty to both charges. She also denied allegations of perverting the course of justice between January 21 and February 21, 2023.
Judge Calls for Cool Heads as Trial Gets Underway
Justice Maurice Greene warned the jury to put emotions aside and focus strictly on the evidence. He stressed the seriousness of Liam Smith’s untimely death and expects the trial to last up to four weeks as the court unravels the tragic events.
