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Skelmersdale murder pair jailed

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Two people who murdered a man in Skelmersdale have today (Friday, February 15) been jailed.

Deborah Andrews, 44, of Elmstead, Skelmersdale and William Vaill, 37, of Evington, Skelmersdale, were given life sentences following the murder of Eamon Brady.

The pair were arrested last year following a fire at Mr Brady’s address.

Firefighters were called around 7.30am on July 21 to reports of an incident at a property in Elmridge. Inside, crews found Mr Brady with a number of injuries to his head and torso. A quilt had been placed on the lower part of his body and set alight.

The 44-year-old was pronounced dead at the scene with detectives from Lancashire Police launching a murder investigation.

Initial enquiries revealed the victim had been with Vaill and Andrews on July 20. CCTV footage showed the pair leaving Mr Brady’s address around 4.50am on July 21, carrying two bags.

Officers traced Vaill and Andrews to a nearby address, where it was revealed they had sold several items belonging to Mr Brady. These included a games console and sound system. Further items belonging to Mr Brady were also found.

Vaill and Andrews were quickly arrested and charged by police.

A post mortem examination later revealed the victim had suffered multiple head injuries, a number of stab wounds to his upper body and neck and significant injuries to his lower body from the fire.

The defendants initially pleaded not guilty but Vaill changed his plea, also admitting a charge of arson with intent.

Andrews, who ran a trial, was convicted of murder and arson with intent.

Vaill was given a life sentence with a minimum term of 28 and a half years, with Andrews handed a life sentence with a minimum term of 28 years.

Det Supt Claire McEnery, of Lancashire Police, said: “Vaill and Andrews are clearly extremely dangerous offenders and today’s prison sentences reflect the gravity of their actions.

“The pair launched a vicious and prolonged attack causing numerous, horrific injuries to Mr Brady which proved fatal.

“We welcome today’s result and hope it provides some comfort for Mr Brady’s family. My thoughts remain with them.”

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