MERSEYSIDE MAN JAILED FOR LIFE OVER FAMILY MURDERS
In April 2015, Peter Fox, a 27-year-old man, was found guilty of manslaughter for the deaths of his mother, Bernadette Fox, aged 57, and his sister, Sarah Fox.The bodies of Bernadette and Sarah were discovered in separate locations—Bernadette was found dead in Bootle, Merseyside, while Sarah's body was at a different property.
Fox has been detained in a psychiatric hospital under the Mental Health Act because of his mental health condition, which has been diagnosed as chronic schizophrenia.
The court was told that Fox believed he was being abused by his family members, but the judge clarified that both his mother and sister had shown him kindness and patience.
The judge described Fox as 'extremely dangerous.' He was sentenced to serve at least 12 years and 7 months in prison, with plans to remain at Ashworth Hospital until he is assessed as fit for transfer to a regular prison.
A victim impact statement from the family expressed their shock and grief, stating they found the incident 'absolutely unbelievable' and lamented that they had 'lost two beautiful people at the hands of someone who should have protected them.' Originally charged with murder, the case was later reduced to manslaughter on the basis of diminished responsibility.
Post-mortem reports revealed that Bernadette died from suffocation, while Sarah was killed through multiple stab wounds.
Detective Chief Inspector Dave Rooney remarked, 'There is no doubt that Peter Fox was mentally ill when he took his mother’s and sister’s lives,' but he also emphasized that the reasons behind his actions remain difficult to understand, and that the family continues to deal with their profound loss.
