Man convicted of 40-year-old woman's murder

A man has pleaded guilty to the murder of a 40-year-old woman.

Appearing at Oxford Crown Court, Robert Richens, 35, of Luther Street, Oxford, admitted killing Rachael Vaughan in Abingdon on 30 May.

Thames Valley Police said he called the force to say he had killed the victim at about 06:26 BST on Sherwood Avenue.

Senior investigating officer Det Ch Insp Stuart May, of the Major Crime Unit, said his thoughts were with the victim's family "at this extremely difficult time".

The force said despite efforts by South Central Ambulance Service to save Ms Vaughan, she was declared dead at the scene.

Richens was arrested on the same day and charged the day after.

Det Ch Insp May thanked the victim's family "for displaying such bravery in supporting this investigation".

"Rachael was killed at home, a place where she should have felt safe," he said.

"Richens' actions on 30 May were callous, he left Rachael in the home making no attempt to administer first aid or seek medical attention for her, he called police some hours later having run out of options.

"I am pleased that he has pleaded guilty."

Richens is due to be sentenced on 30 January at the same court.

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