A Warrington man has been locked up for more than 14 years after admitting the brutal murder of his former partner, Michele Kennedy.
Gavin Shaw Sentenced at Liverpool Crown Court
Gavin Shaw, 62, of Manchester Road, was sentenced to 14 years and 196 days in prison at Liverpool Crown Court on Thursday, 2 April. The court heard that Shaw had pleaded guilty to the murder of 55-year-old Ms Kennedy.
A Relationship Turned Deadly
Ms Kennedy and Shaw shared a long-term relationship known to be volatile before separating in August 2025. In the weeks prior to her death, Michele had started a new romance after meeting a man on holiday in Turkey with her mother. The pair had continued to see each other after returning to the UK, spending time together just days before the fatal attack.
Detectives revealed that Shaw became aware of Michele’s new relationship through text messages and witness statements.
The Fatal Attack
On Monday 13 October, after downing five pints in a local pub, Shaw stormed into Michele’s home on Manchester Road at around 4pm. Without warning, he stabbed her twice in the chest in a savage attack lasting just three minutes.
Despite her injuries, Michele managed to escape the house but collapsed on the pavement. Passersby rushed to help, providing first aid and securing the knife. They also identified Shaw to the police when officers arrived on the scene.
Shaw then went to his son’s nearby home, where he admitted what he had done. He was arrested immediately and made several incriminating statements.
An air ambulance rushed Michele to Aintree Hospital, but despite intensive care, she tragically died on Saturday 18 October.
Jealousy Behind the Horrific Murder
During police interviews, Shaw admitted stabbing Michele but claimed he had no intention to kill.
“It is my belief that he acted out of jealousy and an inability to allow her to move on with her life,”
— Detective Inspector Eleanor Atkinson, Cheshire Police
Detective Inspector Eleanor Atkinson described the murder as “an exceptionally traumatic incident for all involved.”
Family Pay Tribute to ‘One-of-a-Kind’ Michele
Michele’s family remembered her as a “larger-than-life character” who left a lasting impression on everyone she met.
“She was beautiful, strong, fearless and one-of-a-kind — a much-loved daughter, mother, sister, auntie and nana. We would like to thank the emergency services and everyone who tried to help. We will miss her very much.”
Shaw was sentenced to life imprisonment, with a minimum term of 14 years and 196 days behind bars.
