SKYDIVING INSTRUCTOR CONVICTED OF DOMESTIC HOMICIDE IN MESSINGHAM
Ashley Kemp, a 55-year-old individual, was found guilty of murdering 50-year-old Clair Armstrong, who was discovered severely injured at her residence on Elm Way in Messingham on 6 November 2022.Although Kemp had previously pleaded guilty to manslaughter, he denied committing murder.
The court was informed that Kemp had strangled Ms.
Armstrong following the end of their relationship, an act described as occurring in a 'fit of rage.' Evidence presented during the trial indicated that their argument stemmed from allegations that Kemp had sexually assaulted a teenage girl.
Kemp himself admitted to police that he strangled Ms.
Armstrong after experiencing a moment of intense anger, or a 'red mist,' when she confronted him about the accusations and told him to leave her home.
It was further disclosed that prior to her death, Kemp had headbutted her with sufficient force to break her nose, and then held her throat with both hands as tightly as he could.
The prosecutor commented that Kemp’s actions suggested he killed her out of fury — implying if he couldn't have her, no one would.
Kemp, who also worked as a skydiving instructor in Hibaldstow, is scheduled for sentencing on 3 May.
Humberside Police described Kemp's conduct as 'unforgivable and thoughtless,' emphasizing that his actions deprived Clair of her life and her loved ones of her presence.
Clair Armstrong was a beauty salon owner and was last observed alive approximately 24 hours prior to Kemp contacting emergency services to confess, claiming the fight occurred roughly two hours earlier.
After less than four hours of deliberation, the court convicted Kemp of her murder, with the sentencing hearing set for May 3.
