The British Airways Murder Case involves Robert Brown and the tragic death of his wife, Joanna Simpson. In October 2010, Brown murdered Simpson in their home, striking her 14 times with a claw hammer while their children were nearby. This shocking incident led to one of the most significant legal battles in British history.
The Crime and Investigation
On the morning following Simpson’s disappearance, Brown called the police to report a domestic incident. However, he initially refused to cooperate with the investigation, alleging that he was unfairly treated due to a prenuptial agreement that excluded him from his wife’s trust fund.
Brown eventually confessed to the murder and led authorities to simulate a burial site in Windsor Great Park. The heinous act left their two young children without a mother and devastated Simpson’s family.
Legal Proceedings
- Date of Incident: October 2010
- Court Appearance: May 2011
- Sentence: 24 years for manslaughter, plus 2 years for obstructing a coroner
Initially cleared of murder, Brown accepted a plea of manslaughter on the grounds of diminished responsibility. He was sentenced to a total of 26 years in prison. His actions were attributed to an adjustment disorder, which can lead to violent outbursts.
Parole Controversy
Brown was set to be released in November 2024 after serving 13 years. However, Justice Secretary Alex Chalk intervened to block his automatic release. This decision came after widespread public outcry, particularly from Simpson’s family, including her mother, Diana Parkes.
Parkes and her friend, Hetti Barkworth-Nanton, led a campaign against Brown’s release. Their efforts were also supported by Carrie Johnson, the wife of former Prime Minister Boris Johnson. Parkes expressed deep concerns about Brown’s potential release, saying it would endanger women and her family.
Current Developments
The case continues to attract media attention, highlighted by the ITV documentary titled “The British Airways Killer,” which aired on February 16, 2024. The series focuses on the investigation into Joanna Simpson’s disappearance and the impact of the case on British legal history.
The Parole Board will review Brown’s case following the Justice Secretary’s referral, potentially delaying his release further. The tragic circumstances surrounding the case serve as a reminder of the deep emotional scars left on victims’ families.
