Belfast man sentenced to life for brutal domestic murder

BELFAST MAN SENTENCED TO LIFE FOR BRUTAL DOMESTIC MURDER

William Stephen Hutchinson, aged 45 and also known by the name Stephen Hutchinson, is a resident of Kilbroney House in east Belfast.

He was found guilty of murdering his partner, Alice Morrow.

The case unfolded when, on March 10, 2019, Hutchinson contacted emergency services to report discovering Ms.

Morrow in bed with visible bruising on her hands and face.

He indicated she was not breathing at the time.

Upon arrival, police found Ms.

Morrow lying motionless on the floor of her flat located on Whincroft Way within the Braniel estate.

There was no sign of forced entry into the apartment.

Hutchinson was visibly distressed, crying uncontrollably.

An autopsy concluded that Ms.

Morrow died due to head and chest injuries, with evidence suggesting a weapon had been used in the assault.

It was noted that she sustained 71 injuries, some severe enough to cause unconsciousness.

During his trial at Belfast Crown Court, Hutchinson confessed to the murder and was sentenced to a minimum term of 21 years imprisonment, with no eligibility for parole.

The presiding judge described the murder as 'cruel and brutal,' condemning Hutchinson’s attempts to delay justice and emphasizing the tremendous suffering experienced by Ms.

Morrow and her family.

Her family, including her role as a mother and grandmother, voiced their profound grief.

The authorities highlighted the importance of seeking help for domestic violence victims, urging those affected to come forward, and underscoring the tragic loss of Ms.

Morrow and the need for support for individuals enduring abuse.