A Warrington man has been sentenced to more than 14 years in prison after admitting to the brutal murder of his former partner, Michele Kennedy.
Gavin Shaw, 62, of Manchester Road, was sentenced at Liverpool Crown Court on Thursday, 2 April. Shaw pleaded guilty to the murder of 55-year-old Ms Kennedy.
Ms Kennedy and Shaw had a long-term relationship that was known to be volatile before they separated in August 2025. In the weeks leading up to her death, Michele had started a new relationship after meeting a man while on holiday in Turkey with her mother. The couple continued to see each other after returning to the UK, spending time together just days before the fatal attack.
Detectives revealed that Shaw became aware of Michele’s new relationship through text messages and witness statements.
On Monday 13 October, after consuming five pints in a local pub, Shaw entered Michele’s home on Manchester Road at around 4pm. Without warning, he stabbed her twice in the chest in an attack that lasted approximately three minutes.
Despite her injuries, Michele managed to escape the house but collapsed on the pavement outside. Passersby rushed to help, providing first aid and securing the knife. They also identified Shaw to the police when officers arrived on the scene.
Shaw then went to his son’s nearby home, where he admitted what he had done. He was arrested immediately and made several incriminating statements.
An air ambulance rushed Michele to Aintree Hospital, but despite intensive care, she tragically died on Saturday 18 October.
During police interviews, Shaw admitted stabbing Michele but claimed he had no intention to kill. Detective Inspector Eleanor Atkinson of Cheshire Police said, “It is my belief that he acted out of jealousy and an inability to allow her to move on with her life.” She described the murder as “an exceptionally traumatic incident for all involved.”
Michele’s family paid tribute to her as a “larger-than-life character” who left a lasting impression on everyone she met. They said, “She was beautiful, strong, fearless and one-of-a-kind — a much-loved daughter, mother, sister, auntie and nana. We would like to thank the emergency services and everyone who tried to help. We will miss her very much.”
Gavin Shaw was sentenced to life imprisonment, with a minimum term of 14 years and 196 days behind bars.
Originally published by UKNIP.
