A cold-blooded killer has been sentenced to life imprisonment for the brutal murders of a couple whose remains were discovered in suitcases near Bristol's iconic Clifton Bridge.
Stephen Duggan, 49, received a life sentence with a minimum term of 38 years at Bristol Crown Court for what the judge described as "exceptionally grave" crimes that shocked the local community.
The Chilling Discovery
The grim investigation began when walkers made a horrifying discovery near the famous suspension bridge - two suitcases containing human remains. Forensic analysis would later identify the victims as Stephen and Tracey Howlett, a couple known to their killer.
Detective Chief Inspector Simon Dewfall of Avon and Somerset Police described the case as "one of the most disturbing investigations" his team had ever handled, noting the "callous and calculated" nature of the crimes.
A Web of Deception Unravels
Evidence presented in court revealed that Duggan had murdered the couple at their home in Patchway, Bristol, before meticulously planning the disposal of their bodies. The prosecution detailed how he used the victims' own bank cards after their deaths in an attempt to cover his tracks.
Senior Investigating Officer DCI Dewfall stated: "Duggan went to significant lengths to conceal his horrific actions, but our investigation painstakingly pieced together the evidence that ultimately secured his conviction."
Justice Served After Emotional Trial
During the sentencing, Mr Justice Garnham told Duggan: "You have been convicted of two murders of exceptional gravity. You killed two people and then dismembered their bodies." The judge emphasised the "exceptional seriousness" of dismembering the victims and disposing of their remains.
The family of Stephen and Tracey Howlett expressed relief that justice had been served, though noting that no sentence could truly compensate for their devastating loss. In a moving statement, they described the couple as "much-loved family members" whose lives were brutally cut short.
The case serves as a stark reminder of the dedicated work undertaken by police forces across the UK to bring violent offenders to justice, even when faced with the most challenging of circumstances.
