On Crimes That Shook Britain, broadcaster Dermot Murnaghan is joined by a team of experts and witnesses to examine cases that gripped the nation to explore how they shaped public conversation. Series nine airs Mondays at 9pm on Crime + Investigation and features the needless murder of Elle Edwards.
For millions of people across the UK, Christmas Eve is a happy occasion. It’s an opportunity to make special memories and spend precious time with family, friends and loved ones. But, on Christmas Eve 2022, the small close-knit community of Wallasey Village, Merseyside was shattered by the tragic and senseless murder of 26-year-old Elle Edwards.
Elle was at the Lighthouse Inn pub enjoying the festive celebrations with friends. But at 11:50 pm, a gunman fired shots into the pub. Elle was an innocent bystander and simply in the wrong place at the wrong time. She sustained critical injuries and died in hospital.
The shocking loss of a popular young woman on what should have been a joyous occasion was a stark reminder of the risk of gang-related gun crime in the area. But her family has resolved to make sure that her death is not in vain.
Background of the shooting
Elle Edwards was a 26-year-old woman whose vibrant personality and zest for life left an impression on everyone who knew her. Known for her infectious smile and kind personality, Elle worked as a beautician in nearby Moreton and was highly skilled in a career she was passionate about.
On the evening of 24th December 2022, Elle visited the Lighthouse Inn with a group of close friends. CCTV footage from before the shooting revealed a typical pub scene, and one that was buzzing with festive cheer as visitors celebrated Christmas Eve. Elle, wearing a leather jacket, was seen warmly hugging friends and chatting happily as they arrived.
The pub, known for its welcoming and lively atmosphere, was an ideal location for enjoying the festivities. However, the happy occasion was brutally cut short by an unexpected and horrifying act of violence, which left the community reeling.
The murder
Just minutes before midnight, the celebratory atmosphere in the pub was violently interrupted by the sound of gunfire that some witnesses initially mistook for fireworks. An unknown assailant opened fire outside the pub, creating a scene of total panic and chaos.
Elle was struck by the gunfire and received critical head injuries. As she lay on the ground, people attempted to provide first aid while they waited for emergency services to arrive. Despite their desperate efforts and the swift response from paramedics, Elle later died in hospital.
Investigation
Early on Christmas Day, the day after the shooting, Merseyside Police confirmed that a murder investigation had been launched to determine the circumstances of Elle’s death. A cordon was established in the area as officers conducted witness enquiries and examined CCTV footage.
After extensive enquiries, police confirmed a 22-year-old male, Connor Chapman, had been arrested on suspicion of murder on 10th January 2023.
Chapman was charged with two counts of attempted murder, three counts of unlawful and malicious wounding with intent to do grievous bodily harm, possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life, possession of ammunition with intent to endanger life, and handling stolen goods, namely a Mercedes A-Class getaway car used on the night. He pleaded not guilty to all charges.
Trial
On 13th June 2023, the trial for Connor Chapman began at Liverpool Crown Court.
During the trial, the court was told Ms Edwards was an innocent bystander. The gunman had been targeting two other men – Kieran Salkeld and his friend Jake Duffy – because of a feud between rival gangs on the Woodchurch and Ford estates, which lie on either side of the M53 in Wirral.
Salkeld and Duffy had both been hurt during the shooting but recovered from their injuries.
On 6th July, following a 24-day trial, Chapman was found guilty of murdering Elle Edwards after the jury deliberated for almost four hours. He was also found guilty of attempted murder, one count of assault occasioning actual bodily harm, two counts of wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, and possession of a gun and ammunition.
The following day Chapman was sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 48 years.
Recent developments
Earlier this year, Chapman lost an appeal against his life sentence. The appeal was based on several grounds, including alleged procedural errors during the trial and claims of insufficient evidence to support the conviction. The defence argued that these issues had unfairly influenced the jury's decision and sought to have the life sentence reduced or the conviction overturned.
However, in their ruling, the judges found that the trial had been conducted fairly and that the evidence against the gunman was overwhelming. They upheld the original verdict, emphasising the gravity of the crime and the strong public interest in maintaining the life sentence.
The legacy of Elle Edwards
The murder of Elle Edwards has had a lasting impact on the community of Wallasey Village, leading to great efforts to address gun violence and improve public safety.
One of the most notable initiatives has been led by Elle’s father, Tim Edwards, who has become a passionate advocate for eliminating gun crime in Wirral. In the wake of his daughter's senseless death, Tim has dedicated himself to raising awareness about the dangers of gun violence and pushing for stricter regulations and better enforcement to prevent similar tragedies.
Through her family, the Elle Edwards Foundation and the efforts of her community, Elle's legacy endures. Her story is a powerful reminder of the need to fight for safer communities across the country.
