A man has been found guilty of murdering his partner and then causing a gas explosion at their north-east London home. Clifton George, 45, was convicted of the murder of Annabel Rook, 46, following an incident last summer in Stoke Newington.
Ms Rook, a dedicated charity founder, was fatally stabbed during an argument at the couple's residence on 17 June 2023. Prosecutors stated that the confrontation arose after Ms Rook expressed her desire to end their relationship.
Following the fatal stabbing, George then deliberately caused a gas explosion at the property. While he admitted to the manslaughter of Ms Rook, he consistently denied the charge of murder throughout the trial.
The court heard detailed evidence regarding the events leading up to Ms Rook's death and the subsequent explosion. The jury, having considered all the evidence presented, concluded that George's actions constituted murder rather than manslaughter.
Annabel Rook was a well-respected figure in her community, known for her work in charitable organisations. Her death and the destruction of her home sent shockwaves through the local area, prompting a significant police and emergency services response at the time of the incident.