Man admits brutal murder of partner and cover-up bid

Ewan Methven, a 27-year-old man, has confessed to the murder of his partner, 21-year-old Phoenix Spencer-Horn, in a gruesome incident that took place at her home in South Lanarkshire. The tragic discovery of Ms. Spencer-Horn's body occurred in November 2024 at a property on Glen Lee in East Kilbride. Prosecutors revealed that Methven brutally attacked her, inflicting multiple stab wounds to her head and body with a knife or knives. The severity of the attack was underscored by the horrific details presented in court, which included allegations that he choked her before severing her head and attempting to dismember her limbs and torso. Methven's actions were described as an attempt to conceal the crime, as he spent two days misleading Ms. Spencer-Horn's family about her wellbeing, specifically by sending texts to her mother, Alison Spencer, falsely claiming that she was 'alive and well.' This manipulation was aimed at evading arrest and prosecution for the heinous act he committed.

During the court proceedings at the High Court in Glasgow, Methven, represented by his KC Tony Graham, entered guilty pleas to charges of murder and attempting to defeat the ends of justice. The courtroom was filled with members of Ms. Spencer-Horn's family, who were present to hear the details of the case against Methven. The judge, Lord Matthews, presided over the hearing, which is expected to continue as further details surrounding the case are examined. The case has drawn significant attention due to its shocking nature and the tragic loss of a young life, raising concerns about domestic violence and the measures needed to protect vulnerable individuals in such relationships. The unfolding details of the trial will likely continue to captivate public interest as it progresses through the judicial system.