The ex-wife of convicted serial murderer Steve Wright, known as the Suffolk Strangler, has expressed her profound fear that he is responsible for killing many more women than the six victims he has admitted to. Diane Cole, aged 71 and originally from the north east of England, described Wright as a "disgrace to humanity" and a "monster" during an exclusive interview, following his recent guilty plea for a sixth murder.
Chilling Admission and Ongoing Fears
Steve Wright, who is already serving a whole life prison sentence for the murders of five women seven years ago, pleaded guilty at the Old Bailey on Monday to killing teenager Victoria Hall. Diane Cole stated she was "thrilled but surprised" by this admission, yet remains convinced that further victims exist. "I still think there’s more to come, at least another four or five women," she revealed, explaining her past obsession with researching missing persons cases online in an attempt to uncover his potential crimes.
Cole emphasised her hope that Wright will "come clean for the sake of the families," acknowledging that while his latest confession might provide some closure for Victoria Hall's family, it can never replace their lost daughter. She expressed sympathy for all affected families, noting, "I feel sorry for the families" and hoping for truth and justice.
A Marriage Marred by Violence and Deception
Diane Cole met Steve Wright while both were working on the QE2 cruise ship, where she was a window dresser and he was a waiter. Initially charmed by his smiles, she soon witnessed his "true colours" within a couple of months. Their marriage in 1987 lasted only two years before divorce, during which Cole endured horrific abuse. She recounted incidents of being dragged across the floor by her feet and living in constant fear, with bruises appearing every two to three months.
"He put me through hell. I didn’t trust anybody after that," Cole said, describing Wright's habitual lying and disappearances. Reflecting on his behaviour, she now believes he was "prowling" during those absences, potentially committing further crimes. Remarkably, she stated, "I’m very amazed I was not killed," recalling how she barricaded doors to protect herself from his threats.
Speculation on Other Cases and Psychological Profile
Cole initially suspected Wright might be involved in the high-profile disappearance of Suzy Lamplugh, a 25-year-old estate agent who vanished in 1993, but has since reconsidered due to his lack of driving ability at the time. She attributed his cruel and violent tendencies to his troubled childhood, saying, "He blamed his childhood," and described him as someone who would consistently put her down and exhibit unpredictable cruelty.
The serial killer, who once called himself the 'mean machine', continues to evoke terror and disbelief from those who knew him. Diane Cole's testimony sheds light on the hidden horrors of domestic abuse and the lingering uncertainties surrounding Wright's full criminal legacy, urging authorities and the public to remain vigilant about potential unsolved cases linked to his actions.
