Man Deemed Unfit for Trial Receives Indefinite Hospital Order for Fatal Stabbing

An individual responsible for the fatal stabbing of an unknown person on a public street has been issued an indefinite order for hospital detention, following a determination that he was mentally unfit to face trial. Paul Hughes, aged 30, assaulted Michelle Hodgkinson on Edge Lane in Droylsden, Tameside, around 12:00 BST on 2 June 2023, as revealed during proceedings at Manchester Minshull Street Crown Court. According to Greater Manchester Police (GMP), Hughes purchased four kitchen knives from a retail establishment before traveling by tram to Droylsden and assaulting his 51-year-old victim, who succumbed to her injuries at the location. The police service indicated that Hughes, experiencing a schizophrenic episode concurrently, had “carefully planned” the assault. Law enforcement stated that surveillance footage (CCTV) showed Hughes opening the knife packet upon disembarking the tram. Following the disposal of three of the knives, authorities reported that he “lay in wait for someone to walk past him”. Police personnel stated that Hughes subsequently pursued and assaulted Ms Hodgkinson from behind as she proceeded on her way to rendezvous with her mother. Bystanders and first responders made unsuccessful efforts to preserve her life. Detective Chief Inspector Danny Lee commented: “Michelle’s death has left a void in her family, and nothing will fix the pain they are feeling. “I hope that they can gain some form of closure and justice from the sentence passed today.”” He further stated: “I’d like to thank the members of the public who rushed to Michelle’s side and the first responders – paramedics and response police officers – who also attended the scene to give CPR in an attempt to give her the best possible chance of life.” Previously, Ms Hodgkinson’s family released a statement, saying: “Everyone who knows Michelle are still in utter shock at the attack she endured and how horrific her last moments were.”Words cannot describe how much she will be missed. Our biggest cheerleader, our confidant, our rock – she will never be forgotten.” The finest content from BBC Radio Manchester is available on Sounds, and updates from BBC Manchester can be followed on Facebook, X, and Instagram. Submissions for story concepts can also be directed to northwest.newsonline@bbc.co.uk. This material is Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content found on external websites. Information regarding our policy on external linking is available.