Home / Crime and Justice / Bride's Pink Suit Carrier Used in Gruesome Murder
Bride's Pink Suit Carrier Used in Gruesome Murder
8 Feb
Summary
- A lorry driver found a suitcase containing a body near the M4.
- The victim was wrapped in a pink suit carrier used for a wedding dress.
- Forensic evidence placed the killer's phone at the body disposal site.
In April 2009, a lorry driver's discovery of a suitcase containing a body near the M4, close to Porthcawl, South Wales, initiated a murder investigation. The body, later identified as 24-year-old Kirsty Grabham, was found wrapped in black bin liners and a distinctive pink suit carrier. This carrier was particularly poignant as Kirsty had bought it to protect her wedding dress.
Kirsty had been reported missing by her husband, Paul Grabham, a week prior. Although initially unsure, investigators confirmed the body was Kirsty's after her mother identified her through her eyebrows, despite severe facial injuries. Forensic pathologist Dr. Richard Shepherd described the extensive injuries as resulting from a violent, prolonged attack, including strangulation marks.
Evidence gathered revealed a troubled relationship between Kirsty and Paul. Friends and family described Kirsty as becoming increasingly fearful and isolated after their marriage. Letters and testimony suggested coercive controlling behaviour by Paul. Neighbours reported hearing screams and sounds of dragging from their flat around the time of Kirsty's disappearance.
