On September 11 at Newport Crown Court Michael Davies, 57, of Bridgend, was found guilty of murder following the unlawful killing of his wife Tracey Davies.
On the evening of April 18, just before 9.20pm, South Wales Police received an emergency call from a family member who had gone to check on the couple after not having contact for 24 hours. Upon entering their home on Bryn Terrace, Cefn Cribwr, the caller discovered Tracey Davies passed away in the bedroom, and Michael Davies unconscious with stab wound injuries.
Emergency services arrived quickly to the scene where it was confirmed Tracey Davies had died. Michael Davies was conveyed to hospital and was subsequently arrested on suspicion of murder. A postmortem was conducted which concluded that Mrs Davies died as a result of strangulation.
Mr Davies was released from hospital a week later and during his police interview he admitted strangling his wife Tracey Davies but did not give any explanation why. He then stated he took an overdose before stabbing himself.
During the investigation, it was revealed that Michael Davies, who worked away in Abu Dhabi, had returned home to Cefn Cribwr due to his poor mental health. He reported feeling insecure, jealous, and paranoid that his wife may leave him.
Michael Davies pleaded guilty to manslaughter on the grounds of diminished responsibility, having been assessed as suffering with depressive disorder and anxiety at the time of the offence.
The jury heard the evidence of three forensic psychiatrists in this case who had assessed Mr Davies. After deliberating all the evidence, they determined that he did not have the defence of diminished responsibility and returned a guilty verdict for the charge of murder.
Michael Davies was sentenced to life with a minimum of 14 years in prison when he appeared before Newport Crown Court on Friday October 2.
Detective Chief Inspector Claire Lamerton of South Wales Police said:
“Today’s sentencing reflects the gravity of Michael Davies’s actions. Tracey Davies’ death and the manner in which she was killed has deeply affected not only the immediate family but also the wider community who knew her.
“During the trial it was highlighted that Tracey Davies was a devoted wife, mother, sister and friend for whom family meant everything. She would do anything for anyone and was nothing but a supportive and loving wife to Mr Davies. We hope that today’s sentencing will provide some comfort to Tracey’s family and friends, though acknowledge their grief may never be overcome.
“The events of April 18 and the murder of Tracey Davies were not foreseen. It is crucial that we continue to raise awareness about mental health and domestic violence, ensuring that individuals have access to the support they need.
“If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out to local services or helplines for assistance.”
Tracey’s family paid the following tribute:
“As a family we have not and will never come to terms with losing Tracey.
“To lose her in such a horrendous and violent way only worsens the pain that we feel.
“No length of sentence given to Michael will ever bring back Tracey and will never reflect the sentence that we as a family are serving having to live our lives without Tracey.
“She was a devoted mother, a cherished sister, a loyal friend, a loving cousin and aunty and a truly radiant presence whose laughter could light up any room.
“Her children were her greatest pride, and she fought for them with unmatched devotion. Tracey is so loved and missed. We will always remember her.”
