An 88-year-old man, William Haxworth, allegedly ended the life of his wife of over 60 years, Delia Haxworth, 85, in a tragic case that has captured the attention of Bristol Crown Court. Prosecutors revealed that William left a note expressing deep anguish and asking for forgiveness, stating, “It all became too much.”
While Haxworth has been deemed unfit to stand trial due to his health, a jury was tasked with determining whether he committed the acts of murder. On June 18, 2024, members of the public spotted him threatening to jump from scaffolding in Bath’s city center. Firefighters and bystanders intervened, during which Haxworth confessed to the killing.
Police later discovered Mrs. Haxworth lying lifeless on a bed at their home in Upper Lansdown Mews. A post-mortem examination confirmed she had been smothered. The note found at the scene conveyed William’s feelings of despair and remorse, reading: “It all seemed lacking in point. You’ve all been so wonderful too. So many kind neighbours. Forgive. Forgive. Will.”
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During the court proceedings, Fire Service Watch Manager Lee Harding recounted Haxworth’s haunting words as he was stopped from jumping: “I had to kill her and now it’s my turn.” The defendant also mentioned his wife had been very ill.
Home Office forensic pathologist Amanda Jeffrey detailed Mrs. Haxworth’s medical history, including a recent hospital visit following a fall and a previous diagnosis of bowel cancer, neither of which contributed to her death. Despite some frailty, Delia was considered generally independent.
Judge William Hart clarified that the jury’s role was to decide whether the defendant committed the acts charged, without having to establish intent or guilt conventionally. Haxworth will not attend the trial, which is expected to last two to three days.