Man convicted of murdering Norfolk pensioner before burning her body
83 year old Patricia Holland was fatally injured by Allan Scott - a man she'd taken in as a lodger
Last updated 24th Mar 2023
A homeless man has been convicted of the murder of a Gorleston woman who took him in as a lodger two years ago.
42 year old Allan Scott, currently being held at HMP Norwich, was found guilty by unanimous verdict at Norwich Crown Court of the murder of Patricia Holland, who was 83.
He also admitted to preventing lawful burial after burning Patricia's body in the back garden of her home in Lowestoft Road.
Scott had been living with Patricia since August 2020, after she met him selling his paintings on the streets of Gorleston.
Police were called to their home on the evening of July 24 2021, to reports Scott had been abusive towards Patricia after burning some food.
He was told to leave the address to avoid being arrested, but returned 17 minutes after police left the home.
The following afternoon, when Patricia's daughter Kathryn called at the address, Scott told her that her mother had gone to church. However Kathryn became concerned after seeing what looked like blood on the door and called the police.
A missing person's investgation was launched by Scott was later arrested. Police found bone fragments in the remains of a bonfire in the back garde, as well as blood splatter in various parts of the house.
There was evidence Scott had attempted to clean up the scene to cover up the fact he'd attacked and killed Patricia.
Following today’s conviction, Senior Investigating Officer, Chris Burgess said: “This is a truly shocking crime where a vulnerable, well-liked elderly woman was murdered in her home by a man she had taken sympathy on and provided shelter to."
"It is clear that Patricia was murdered in her hallway, then Allan Scott has gone to extreme measures to attempt to hide the heinous crime he committed. The callous act of then burning her body on a fire in the back garden is inexcusable.
"Patricia was well-known in the community in Gorleston. She was a regular churchgoer and a familiar face to many at local cafes and the local food bank she attended.
“The extensive investigation, and help from experts, found key evidence that showed Scott had murdered Patricia and went to extreme lengths to conceal his actions.
"My thoughts are with Pat’s family and friends following this conviction, they have shown bravery and patience while we have collected the evidence in this investigation. I am grateful the jury have found Scott guilty of murder today.”
Scott will be sentenced at a later date.