Man admits to killing pensioner in Somerset home
James O’Connor has pleaded guilty of manslaughter at Bristol Crown Court
Last updated 11th Mar 2024
44-year-old James O'Connor has admitted killing 89-year-old Frederick Burge in his Glastonbury home last year.
He pleaded guilty to manslaughter by diminished responsibility at Bristol Crown Court yesterday (Thursday 8 February).
The court heard how O’Connor stabbed Mr Burge at his home off George Street, in Glastonbury on Sunday 26th February, last year.
An investigation was launched by the Major Crime Investigation Team following his death and O'Connor was charged on Wednesday 8 March.
He will be sentenced at Bristol Crown Court at a later date.
At the time of his death, Frederick’s family shared a loving tribute to the ‘best dad, grandad, great-grandad and great-great-grandad in the world’.
They said: “He was a loving, kind and charming man and a huge hole has been left in our hearts by his sudden passing.
“We take some comfort in knowing he is up in heaven with his late wife, Marina, and he is looking down on us and we know he would want us to be strong.
“We will look back on the cherished memories of the time we had together with fondness, and we will treasure these always.”
MCIT Senior Investigating Officer, Det Supt Gary Haskins, said: “Our collective thoughts remain with Frederick’s family, who have been supportive throughout the investigation.
“Frederick was described by them as a well-known character in Glastonbury with a friendly smile who regularly stopped to talk with others in the community.
“We hope this result will give the family some closure and give them solace following what has undoubtedly been a very difficult time.
“I would like to recognise the hard work of all police officers and staff involved in the investigation as well as partners within the community and the Crown Prosecution Service.”