A devastating story of love, despair, and tragedy unfolded at the Old Bailey today, as the court heard how an 83-year-old pensioner killed his wife of six decades before attempting to take his own life.
Derek Armstrong, a retired engineer, admitted to the manslaughter of his 81-year-old wife, Margaret Armstrong, on the grounds of diminished responsibility. The court was told the couple had been married for 61 years.
The incident occurred on the morning of April 28th at their home in Bexleyheath, south-east London. Police discovered a heart-wrenching scene after being called to perform a welfare check. Alongside the tragedy, officers found a poignant note left by Mr. Armstrong, which simply read: 'Please forgive me.'
The hearing revealed that Mr. Armstrong had been his wife's primary carer. Prosecutors stated that Mrs. Armstrong suffered from several serious health conditions, including dementia, which had placed an immense strain on her husband.
It is believed the tremendous pressure of his caring responsibilities ultimately led to this catastrophic breakdown. After the event, Derek Armstrong was found by authorities with critical, self-inflicted injuries.
He was rushed to a major trauma centre for emergency treatment and later arrested. The couple's family, who are being supported by specially trained officers, have been made aware of the proceedings.
Mr. Armstrong was released on conditional bail ahead of his sentencing, which is scheduled for a later date. The judge ordered pre-sentencing reports to be prepared, acknowledging the complex and profoundly sad circumstances of the case.
