MANCHESTER MUSICIAN JAILED FOR WIFE’S MURDER
A talented classical musician and double bass player, John Martin, was found guilty of murdering his wife, Natalia Strelchenko, a distinguished concert pianist.The court case disclosed that Martin strangled his wife at their home in Newton Heath, Manchester, on what was their second wedding anniversary.
The victim, aged 38, died from head and neck injuries last August, after an alleged attack by Martin during an argument rooted in jealousy and ongoing relationship tensions.
Martin denied committing murder, claiming he had no recollection of the incident or ensuing struggle.
However, evidence indicated he had sustained 76 injuries, 45 of which were on her head and neck, and police bodycam footage captured him telling officers, 'kill me, kill me please,' upon their arrival.
The trial also revealed that Martin had become angry after Ms Strelchenko posted her address online, and witnesses described him exhibiting violent behavior, including throwing her down stairs and punching her repeatedly.
Despite indications that he was suffering from a severe depressive episode at the time, the court found him guilty of murder.
