Former EastEnders actress Gemma McCluskie, 29, was brutally murdered and dismembered by her brother Tony McCluskie in March 2012. Her headless torso was discovered in Regents Canal, London, and her head was found floating in the same canal six months later. Tony McCluskie was convicted of her murder and sentenced to life in prison.
The Disappearance and Discovery
Gemma McCluskie, known for playing Kerry Skinner on the BBC soap EastEnders from October 2000 to February 2001, vanished from her East London flat on March 1, 2012. She was last seen at home with her brother Tony that afternoon and was spotted alive at a kebab shop at 8pm that night. After she failed to reappear, her family organized a search party of up to 100 people on March 5. The next day, her headless torso was found in Regents Canal, where her brother had dumped it.
The Brutal Murder
Prosecutors proved that Tony McCluskie killed his sister by hitting her over the head at least twice before hacking her body into six pieces using a cleaver and a knife. Her limbs were later found in a plastic bag, and her head was discovered six months after the murder. The siblings had a history of arguing, and Tony claimed he 'lost control' due to cannabis, skunk, and window cleaner use. However, the prosecution argued that he killed her after losing patience when she asked him to leave their shared flat because he had left taps running and caused a sink to overflow.
Arrest and Trial
Tony McCluskie was charged with murder on March 10, 2012, and appeared at Thames Magistrates' Court two days later. During his trial, which began in January 2013, the court heard that he had lugged a heavy suitcase to a local cab firm and was seen taking it towards the canal. When the taxi driver asked what was in the bag, Tony replied it was a 'sound system'. He was found guilty by an 11-1 majority and given a life sentence.
Judge's Remarks and Family Statement
Mr Justice Fulford stated: 'I have no doubt that you killed your sister because she was furious with you for letting a sink overflow in the bathroom. I unhesitatingly reject your account that she had used bad language towards you or that she had belittled you in the past. She was a warm-hearted woman who was loved by a great many people.' The judge added that the crime was committed in a 'cold-blooded way' and that Tony hoped 'she would never be found'.
Anthony McCluskie, father of both siblings, described the events as 'extremely traumatic' and said his daughter was 'small in stature' but had a 'huge personality' and a strong 'zest for life'. He added that she was 'very much loved' and 'greatly missed'.
