A prisoner has admitted killing a fellow inmate at HMP Risley prison in Warrington after stabbing him in the chest with an improvised weapon.
Adriesse Gray, aged 23, from Manchester, pleaded guilty to the murder of Stephen O’Donnell during a hearing at Liverpool Crown Court yesterday (Monday 15 March).
He will be sentenced on Monday 20 May at Liverpool Crown Court.
The incident took place at HMP Risley on Tuesday 22 January at 6.15pm.
Gray, who is currently serving four years and nine months for burglary, stabbed 33-year-old Stephen, from Stockport, on the landing of the Elton wing at HMP Risley.
Stephen was stabbed once to the chest with an improvised weapon.
After he was stabbed Stephen, who was serving a five year sentence for GBH, made his way towards his cell before the alarm was raised.
Medical staff at the prison treated Stephen at the scene and he was transferred to Warrington Hospital by ambulance where he sadly died at around 7.50pm.
Gray was detained by prison staff before being arrested on suspicion of murder by police.
Stephen O’Donnell
An investigation was launched by Cheshire Police’s Major Investigation Team and Gray was subsequently charged.
Detective Inspector Nigel Reid, who led the investigation, said: “Today, Gray has pleaded guilty to murder and in doing so has spared Stephen’s family the ordeal of having to sit through a trial.
“Our thoughts remain with them at this incredibly difficult time and we continue to support them throughout this process.
“A dedicated team of detectives have been working as part of this investigation to build a case and secure justice for Stephen and his family. I hope that today’s outcome provides them with some comfort.”
At the time of Stephen’s death, his family issued a tribute.
They said: Our hearts are broken at the loss of our beloved Stephen. He was a lovely man who was adored by his family and friends. He didn’t deserve to be taken from us in this way, but nobody can take away the memories that we have of him which we will always treasure.”
