Pregnant Lucy McHugh Told Care Worker Before Murder, Jury Hears
The tragic story of Lucy McHugh took a shocking turn in court as the jury heard she was pregnant before her murder. Her mother’s awareness of the relationship has also come under scrutiny.
Care Worker on Trial for Schoolgirl’s Murder
Stephen Nicholson, a former care worker aged 25, stands accused of murdering 16-year-old Lucy McHugh. Lucy’s body was discovered in a southampton/" title="Southampton" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Southampton woodland area near the Sports Centre last July by a dog walker.
Opening statements revealed Nicholson faces multiple charges, including:
- Murder of Lucy McHugh
- Three counts of rape involving Lucy when she was just 12 years old
- Underage sex offence involving another girl, aged 14 at the time
Nicholson denies all allegations.
Brutal Attack with Unknown Weapon
The court heard Lucy suffered repeated stab wounds to her neck and upper torso from a blade that has never been recovered. The fatal wound to her neck was described as “catastrophic.”
Jury Tours Crime Scene Woodland
Yesterday, the jury was taken to the shallow woodland where Lucy was murdered. The defendant was not present for the visit. The judge reminded jurors to avoid discussing the case, stressing they remain effectively in court throughout.
Secret Relationship Turned Deadly
Prosecutors say Nicholson, who had a secret sexual relationship with the vulnerable teen, brutally killed Lucy after she revealed she was pregnant. He also faces unrelated rape and sexual activity charges involving minors.
The trial continues at Winchester Crown Court and is expected to last several weeks. The jury has been sent home until Monday’s 10am session.
