Warning: This article contains details some readers may find distressing
Ewan Methven, 27, killed Phoenix Spencer-Horn, 21, at the home they shared after the couple ordered a takeaway to their flat in East Kilbride’s Glen Lee, South Lanarkshire, on 16 November 2024.
The High Court in Glasgow heard how Methven, who worked as a postman for Royal Mail, had complained earlier that day his partner’s waitress shifts made him “lonely”.
The couple were said to have been together for two years and met at a family party.
At around midnight on 16 November, prosecutors say Methven attacked Ms Spencer-Horn with three knives, stabbing her 20 times, before mutilating her body and severing her head.
He then spent the weekend driving Ms Spencer-Horn’s red Corsa, scrolling through her phone and searching for internet pornography, as well as making several attempts to buy cocaine.
Prosecutor Christopher McKenna said: “Late on Saturday November 16, he strangled her and stabbed her. He dialled 999 but not until November 18.
“Her mutilated and decapitated body was discovered only on November 18.”
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The court heard that Ms Spencer-Horn had seen her mother the day before she was murdered and had been in good spirits at work.
Mr McKenna said: “The police recovered texts between the accused and Phoenix, he complained of feeling lonely because of the hours she worked and he apologised.”
The court heard that a food order was placed around 8pm and Methven “did not appear to be drunk or under the influence by the delivery driver”, however, in a 999 call, he claimed that the murder happened when he had a psychotic episode induced by cocaine, alcohol and steroids.
Methven pleaded guilty to murder and attempting to defeat the ends of justice at the High Court in Glasgow on Tuesday. He will be sentenced next month.
Detective Chief Inspector Susie Cairns said: “My thoughts remain with Phoenix’s family and friends as they continue to try to come to terms with what happened.
“Methven now faces the consequences of his actions. Violence such as this is never acceptable in our communities, and we will work tirelessly to ensure those responsible are brought to justice.”
