A man accused of murdering his long-term partner, a respected teacher, allegedly stabbed her 54 times in a brutal attack at her home in Carshalton, south London, a court heard today.
James Madden, 39, appeared at the Old Bailey charged with the murder of 36-year-old Gemma Devonish, who was found dead at her residence on September 14, 2024. Prosecutors detailed the harrowing events, stating that Madden inflicted multiple stab wounds on Ms. Devonish during what they described as a “prolonged and frenzied attack.”
Ms. Devonish, a primary school teacher remembered for her dedication and compassion, was discovered in her bedroom after neighbors reported hearing loud shouting and distressing noises coming from the property. Emergency services arrived at the scene, but she was pronounced dead shortly after.
Prosecutor Eleanor Grant told the court: “This was a calculated and ferocious attack on a woman who had devoted her life to educating and caring for children. The nature and extent of the injuries demonstrate the intent to kill.”
Madden, who had been in a relationship with Ms. Devonish for nearly eight years, was arrested hours later at a nearby address. The court heard that he had sent threatening messages to her in the days leading up to the incident.
During the preliminary hearing, Madden spoke only to confirm his name and address. He did not enter a plea. The judge remanded him in custody, with a trial date set for March 2025.
Ms. Devonish’s family and colleagues paid tribute to her in a statement read outside the court. “Gemma was a bright light in the lives of everyone she touched. She was passionate about her work, loved by her students, and cherished by her family. We are devastated by this senseless loss.”
The trial is expected to examine the relationship between Madden and Ms. Devonish, including any evidence of previous domestic abuse.
The Metropolitan Police have urged anyone with information about the incident to come forward as investigations continue.
