A man has been sentenced to life in prison after killing his girlfriend in a brutal and disturbing attack at their shared home in South Lanarkshire.
Ewan Methven, 27, will serve at least 23 years for the murder of 21-year-old Phoenix Spencer-Horn at their flat in Glen Lee, East Kilbride, last November. The young woman was found dead by police two days after the killing, with her body hidden in the property.
Methven pleaded guilty at the High Court in Glasgow to murder and attempting to defeat the ends of justice.
A ‘truly dreadful crime’
The court heard that Methven launched the attack shortly after the couple had ordered takeaway food. He then spent the following weekend driving Phoenix’s car, searching the internet, and even texting her mother pretending Phoenix was still alive.
Two days later, he phoned 999 and confessed to the killing, claiming he had experienced a breakdown and had been using alcohol and drugs. Officers who arrived at the flat discovered Phoenix’s body concealed under a towel.
Lord Matthews, sentencing, described it as a “truly dreadful crime,” saying Methven had stripped Phoenix of dignity in both life and death. He added: “You were a trusted member of her family, but you betrayed that trust in the worst way imaginable.”
Family left in grief and confusion
Phoenix’s family were said to be devastated by the loss of a young woman described as bright, kind-hearted, and full of potential. Her father had passed away some years earlier, and her mother had maintained close contact with her daughter until the sudden silence after November 16.
In court, Methven’s defence said he had acknowledged a substance abuse issue and had written a letter expressing remorse. In it, he said: “I can’t believe I’ve taken her from them.”
But the judge rejected the idea that drug use could justify or explain the events, saying: “You robbed Phoenix of her future and denied her family the ability to say goodbye. There is no excuse.”
Long-term consequences for all involved
The case has shocked the local community in East Kilbride, where Phoenix was well known. Friends and neighbours described her as a vibrant young woman with a bright future ahead of her.
Methven showed little emotion in court as he was told he would spend at least the next two decades behind bars. Police Scotland confirmed that a full investigation had taken place and that the family were being supported by specialist officers.
Lord Matthews concluded: “Phoenix was only 21. She should have had her whole life ahead of her. Instead, she became the victim of an act of cruelty no family should ever have to endure.”
