Live: Day Three of Louise Smith Murder Trial Shocks Winchester Court
The gruesome murder trial of 16-year-old Louise Smith entered day three at Winchester Crown Court today. Shane Lee Mays, 30, from Havant, faces charges of killing the schoolgirl after her badly burnt body was found in Havant Thicket woodland on May 21. Louise had been missing since May 8, sparking an extensive police search.
Family Heartbroken But Fighting for Justice
Louise’s mother, Rebbecca Cooper, and family remain in court, visibly emotional but determined to seek justice. The mother spoke out: “Louise was very loved by me, both her dads, her nan and grandad, all her aunties, uncles, cousins, family, friends, teachers, and even people who didn’t know her. She will be deeply missed by all.”
Warning: Some details shared in court are graphic and distressing.
Prosecution Details ‘Cruel and Brutal’ Murder
Prosecutor Mr Newton-Price QC described Mays’ actions as “unimaginable cruelty.” Mays initially told police he walked Louise to a skate park near Emsworth on May 8, then left her there. The court heard this was a lie.
- Louise’s body was found badly burnt and unrecognisable due to fire damage.
- She suffered severe violence, including multiple heavy blows to the head that shattered her jawbone and facial structure.
- Evidence suggests sexual motivation behind the attack.
- Mays was seen on CCTV leaving Havant Thicket and later arriving at his mother’s home sweaty and thirsty.
Louise, described as vulnerable and taking antidepressants, had moved in with Mays’ household in late April. Despite a seemingly happy start, tensions grew due to curfews and disagreements over cannabis use and late nights. Louise expressed on social media her wish to leave the Mays household.
Defense Claims Arguments Led to ‘Loss of Temper’
Mays’ defense lawyer admitted that Mays attacked Louise after an argument, but denied intent to kill. The defendant accepts his DNA was found on a weapon and Louise’s blood was discovered on his trainer. Mays denies involvement in murder, claiming no intention to cause serious harm.
Court heard from Louise’s boyfriend, who said she was happy when last seen and found the idea Louise went to Emsworth strange since she knew no one there. Louise had told him Mays flirted and treated her badly.
Evidence and CCTV Paint a Dark Picture
- Over 19 injuries listed on Louise’s body by pathologists.
- Blood stains consistent with repeated punches found on Mays’ left trainer.
- Louise’s last movements captured by CCTV show her shopping with Mays on May 7 and 8.
- Phone messages reveal Louise’s fear and desire to leave Mays’ home.
The trial will resume tomorrow with further CCTV and message evidence. The prosecution is pushing for a murder conviction, rejecting Mays’ manslaughter plea.
If you have any information about this case, please contact police on 101.
