Alfie Miller, 22, found guilty of stabbing Darren Hughes in savage Salisbury attack
Fury in Longhedge as stabbing turns deadly
An appalling murder verdict has sent shockwaves through Salisbury after Alfie Miller was convicted of the savage killing of 52-year-old Darren Hughes.
Miller, 22, from Willow Drive, Durrington, plunged a knife into Darren multiple times in the bathroom of his Longhedge home at about 7.45am on May 3. After the brutal assault, Miller shouted to neighbours to call the police before fleeing the scene.
The two men had known each other through a mutual friend and spent the night drinking and taking drugs, including cocaine and cannabis.
Self-defence claim thrown out as jury delivers unanimous verdict
Miller admitted manslaughter but denied murder, insisting Darren made unwanted advances and that he acted in self-defence. He later tried to use a ‘loss of control’ defence.
But Judge HHJ Dugdale dismissed the excuse, telling jurors to decide if Miller intended to kill or cause serious harm. The jury found him unanimously guilty of murder.
Police and family demand justice
“This was a brutal and violent attack against a defenceless victim,” said DI Darren Ambrose. “Darren was unarmed and just about to shower when Miller murdered him. Justice has been served for Darren’s family.”
Darren’s family added: “This was the only acceptable outcome. We thank Wiltshire Police and the Crown Prosecution. We ask for privacy to grieve and urge people to think before posting hurtful comments on social media.”
Miller is in custody awaiting sentencing, which is set for tomorrow, December 17.
