Life Sentence for Brutal Murder in Blackpool
David Carney, 38, from Blackpool, has been sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum of 16 years and seven months for the savage murder of Raymond Cullen in October 2019. Tracey Fielding, 47, of Fleetwood, pleaded guilty to manslaughter and got nine years and nine months behind bars.
Night of Terror on Bold Street
Raymond Cullen, 55, known as ‘Irish Ray’, was found dead at his home in Bold Street shortly after 2am on October 10, 2019. Paramedics pronounced him dead at the scene. He suffered brutal head injuries and widespread bruising. Paint was poured over his body, with footprints smeared around him.
A Home Office post-mortem confirmed Mr Cullen died from head injuries sustained in the attack.
Jealousy and Revenge Spark Deadly Assault
Police investigations revealed Tracey Fielding, Mr Cullen’s former partner, had a vendetta against him. A witness overheard her admitting at a pub that Carney had “left Ray for dead.” CCTV showed Carney approaching Mr Cullen’s house just before 2am on October 8, launching an unprovoked violent attack. He then drenched Mr Cullen in paint.
Detectives recovered Carney’s Superdry jacket and Timberland boots, matching paint footprints at the scene. Tests found Mr Cullen’s blood on the boots. Further investigation revealed Fielding discussed the attack with relatives and acknowledged Carney had “sorted Ray.” Carney himself admitted in text messages that Mr Cullen “won’t be causing any more problems ever.”
Disturbing Evidence and Guilty Pleas
- Mr Cullen’s wallet was found in a drain outside Fielding’s home.
- Carney washed bloodied clothes at Fielding’s address.
- Fielding admitted prompting Carney to assault Mr Cullen, though claimed she didn’t intend serious harm.
Both were charged with murder. Carney pleaded guilty, while Fielding admitted manslaughter after legal talks.
Police and Family React
“Ray Cullen’s death was the sad and tragic result of one woman’s personal vendetta,” said Det Ch Insp Zoe Russo. “At Fielding’s instigation, Carney carried out a brutal, violent attack which led to Mr Cullen’s death. The paint poured over his body was a key clue that helped police catch them.”
“Both offenders are dangerous and unapologetic. They only admitted guilt when faced with overwhelming evidence. We hope the sentences bring some closure to Mr Cullen’s family.”
In a heartfelt statement, Mr Cullen’s family said: “Words can’t describe how it feels to have a loved one murdered. Our dad was our best friend and proud family man. He supported us all with love. We are devastated beyond words.”
“Justice has been served, but our life sentence has only just begun. We thank everyone who worked tirelessly on the case and supported us. We miss our dad every day but can now let him rest.”
