Horrific Trial Enters Day Three at Winchester Crown Court
The chilling murder trial of Shane Lee Mays, 30, accused of killing 16-year-old Louise Smith, continues at Winchester Crown Court. Louise’s body was found in Havant Thicket woods on May 21, weeks after she was last seen on May 8.
Warning: This coverage includes graphic details that some readers may find distressing.
Family Seek Justice Amid Shocking Evidence
Louise’s mother Rebecca and family are present daily, supporting each other as they listen to harrowing testimony. They remain determined to get justice for Louise despite the emotional toll.
The prosecution, led by Mr Newton-Price QC, has finished opening statements and is now presenting gruesome evidence to the jury. Mays is said to have lied about his whereabouts on the day Louise vanished.
Brutal Details Emerge in Court
- Louise’s body was horribly burnt, nearly unrecognisable, after being subjected to a determined attempt to destroy it by fire.
- She suffered multiple heavy blows to the head, shattering her facial bones and detaching her jawbone.
- Evidence shows severe violent and sexual assault inflicted upon her.
The prosecutor described Louise as “vulnerable,” battling anxiety and taking antidepressants. She confided in Mays’ wife that she wanted to call them “mum and dad,” but was wary of making Mays uncomfortable.
Just days before her death, Louise sent friends a Snapchat photo of herself crying and expressed a desperate wish to leave the household, calling those she lived with “vile.” Police arrested Mays and CJ on suspicion of kidnap on May 14.
Mays Admits Attack but Denies Intent to Kill
Defence barrister Andrew Langdon QC revealed Mays confessed to attacking Louise in a moment of rage after an argument. He admitted repeatedly punching her and admitted his DNA was found on a weapon and victim’s blood on his shoe.
Mays claims he did not intend to kill her and lied to police about walking her to Emsworth. Prosecution argues he then returned later to burn her body, evading CCTV surveillance.
Forensic evidence shows blood spots on Mays’ trainer consistent with repeated punches to Louise’s face, with DNA a billion times more likely to be hers.
CCTV Footage Traces Final Movements
CCTV shows Mays and Louise together shortly before 8pm on May 7, entering a local shop. Louise was later seen at Tesco before the pair are spotted walking back together along Somborne Drive.
Louise’s friend Chloe Edwards described her troubled life at Mays’ flat, where she was restricted from using her phone or leaving freely and struggled emotionally.
Family Plead for Information
“Louise was very loved by me, both her dads, her nan and grandad, all her family and friends. She will be missed by many,” said her mother Rebecca Cooper.
The family and police urge anyone with information to call 101. The trial will continue with more live updates as the court hears further evidence.
