FAMILY'S HEARTBREAKING TRIBUTE TO 'SHINING LIGHT' STEPH IRONS WHO WAS KILLED IN MAPPERLEY STABBING
The parents of a 23-year-old Nottingham university graduate who was stabbed to death by her 'obsessed' killer in her own home have told of the loss of their 'shining light'.Adegbola pleaded guilty to murder at a previous court hearing and has no previous convictions.
The judge Nirmal Shant KC jailed him for life and told the murderer it would be 25 years until he will be eligible to apply for parole.
In a statement from Nottinghamshire Police, DI Stuart Barson said: "This is a truly shocking and tragic case where a young woman who had her whole future ahead of her has had her life cut short far too soon." “Our focus from the very start of this investigation has been to get justice for Steph, her family and friends, and that has been reflected through the results today.
“Miss Irons’ family have shown incredible strength and bravery throughout the whole process, and I would personally like to thank them for their assistance throughout this legal ordeal.
"Justice has been served, but the pain remains for her loved ones.
Steph had aspirations to be a psychologist, having earned both a degree and master’s in clinical psychology.
She was murdered by her workmate Adedapo Adegbola, who could not accept their previous brief relationship was over.
He bought knives from B&M in Daybrook before the attack at her home in Westdale Lane on October 21 of last year, then fled the scene, leaving her "dead or dying" inside.
He then went to Mansfield, Sheffield, and Hull before returning to Nottingham, where he surrendered himself.
This heinous and violent act has resulted in a life sentence for Adegbola, who will serve at least 25 years before being eligible for parole.
Nottinghamshire Police expressed their gratitude to the emergency services, investigation team, and family liaison officers for their efforts in securing justice for Steph Irons.
