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Husband reports wife missing, body found in wedding dress bag

The discovery of a female corpse inside a suitcase prompts an investigation, with forensic experts working to uncover the identity of the deceased and the circumstances surrounding her death.

A warning to readers: the following story contains disturbing details of death and human remains that may be upsetting to some individuals.

Head and shoulders shot of Kirsty. She is made up and has bleached blonde hair to her shoulders. She is wearing a black halter neck top and has a silver and sparkling stone necklace on. She is smiling slightly at the camera. There is the edge of a mirror behind her on a wall. — Kirsty was reported missing by her husband Paul Grabham a week before her body was found

In February 2008, Kirsty Wilkinson found her perfect wedding dress after a whirlwind romance, and to keep it safe, she purchased a pink suit carrier in preparation for her big day.

Over a year later, the same pink carrier would be discovered in a shocking and gruesome find, sparking a massive manhunt for a ruthless killer.

A new documentary has now shed light on the investigation that led to the capture of Kirsty's murderer.

On April 6, 2009, a lorry driver stopped at an underpass near Porthcawl in south Wales and noticed a suitcase in the embankment, which he retrieved, only to discover a hand and bloodstained blonde hair inside.

The driver had initially thought the suitcase might have fallen from a car roof rack, but the gruesome discovery would set off a chain of events to identify the victim and uncover the truth.

Around the same time, senior investigation officer Dorian Lloyd was working on a missing person's case in Swansea, after Kirsty Grabham, 24, was reported missing by her husband Paul on March 30, a week after she was last seen by friends.

Kirsty, formerly Wilkinson, had been out with friends the previous Friday, and her husband reported her missing when she failed to return home.

Initially, police found nothing unusual at Kirsty's home, but when the body was discovered near the M4, Lloyd was called to the scene to investigate further.

Lloyd described the scene as "horrific," with the body found in a suitcase, wrapped in two black bin liners and a pink suit carrier.

Kirsty Wilkinson wears a silver short sleeved dress with a pattern of black flowers on it. She is white, with bleached blonde hair which comes below her shoulders. She has her arms raised and is smiling at the camera. She wears a wide silver bangle. In the background, which is at night, a sign reading "Fish'n'Chips food to take away" is illuminated. There is a yellow pole behind her and the edge of a canopy. It looks like a fairground site. — Kirsty Wilkinson was soft-hearted and tried to please people, her mother says

The investigation team suspected the body might be Kirsty's, but they needed confirmation, and the fact that she was found 20 miles from her home raised doubts about the identification.

Former chief reporter at BBC Wales, Penny Roberts, who covered the case, noted that a woman matching Kirsty's description had gone missing in the same area, making it a significant lead.

However, the distance between the body's discovery and Kirsty's home made it an unusual case, as Lloyd pointed out that it was rare for a body to be moved such a long distance.

As evidence pointed to Kirsty as the victim, her mother, Cathy Broomfield, was tasked with the difficult job of identifying her daughter's body.

Cathy recalled the traumatic experience, saying that her daughter's body was unrecognizable, with a broken nose, jaw, and blood in her hair, making it a horrific sight.

Cathy Broomfield is a woman in late middle age. She has dyed blonde chest-length hair. She is wearing an above the elbow sleeved dress with a brown and cream patterned dress. She is seated behind a table with her left hand resting on it. She wears an large square watch and a wedding ring. She has a tattoo on her lower left arm. She is sitting in a living room with a mantlepiece to her right with a lamp on it, and a standard lamp to her right. There is an out of focus cabinet behind her and a painting on the wall. — Cathy Broomfield said Kirsty's behaviour changed after she got married, and she was a "nervous wreck"

The only recognizable feature was her eyebrows, which allowed Cathy to confirm her identity, leaving her in a state of shock.

The fact that Kirsty's body was wrapped in the same pink carrier she had bought to protect her wedding dress was a particularly distressing detail for the investigation team.

When Paul Grabham was informed that the body was likely his wife's, his lack of reaction and refusal to comment raised suspicions among the police.

However, the police needed concrete evidence to build a case, and the pathology team's findings would prove crucial in uncovering the truth about Kirsty's death.

The post-mortem examination revealed the extent of the violence inflicted on Kirsty, showing a brutal and prolonged attack.

Former Home Office forensic pathologist Dr. Richard Shepherd described the injuries as "violent, vicious, and prolonged," indicating a severe assault.

The examination found fingerprint bruising on Kirsty's throat and a fractured bone behind her tongue, demonstrating the force used against her.

As the police investigated Kirsty and Paul's relationship, they discovered a history of problems and controlling behavior.

Cathy Broomfield recalled that her daughter had been in a previous relationship but suddenly announced her plans to marry Paul, and the two had a whirlwind romance, marrying just three months after meeting.

Cathy sits in an armchair with baby Kirsty. Cathy's hair is short and she wears a short sleeved green and white top and a dark skirt. Kirsty is dressed in a white spotted dress with a green cardigan over it and white knee length socks. — Cathy with Kirsty, who was a small baby and grew into a petite woman, at 5ft 1in, a foot shorter than her husband

However, soon after the marriage, Cathy noticed changes in Kirsty's behavior, describing her as a "nervous wreck" who would quickly leave the house when Paul arrived.

Kirsty's family had concerns about Paul's behavior, and letters between the couple revealed problems in their relationship, which forensic psychologist Dr. Catrin Williams studied.

Dr. Williams noted evidence of coercive controlling behavior in the relationship, where one partner exerts control over the other's movements, isolates them, and dictates their interactions.

Cathy recalled an incident where Paul strangled Kirsty at a party, leaving her fearing for her life.

Although the evidence of Paul's violence was mounting, it was not enough to prove his guilt, and he maintained that he had been out with Kirsty on the night she disappeared but returned home alone, claiming she had left him.

However, neighbors reported hearing screams and banging sounds between 3:00 and 4:00 am, which contradicted Paul's alibi.

A witness from a bar the couple had visited that night remembered serving Kirsty a drink with an apple in it, which was later found in her system during the post-mortem examination.

Dr. Shepherd said the presence of the apple in Kirsty's small bowel suggested that she died between 3:00 and 4:00 am, fitting the timeline of the neighbors' testimony.

The police needed evidence that Kirsty died in the flat, and senior forensic scientist Claire Morse was tasked with finding it.

Paul Grabham arriving at Swansea Magistrates Court, where he is charged with the murder of his wife, Kirsty. Paul is wearing a dark blue zip up top with white stripes down the shoulders and sleeves and is staring at the ground as he walks. A prison guard is walking behind him wearing a white shirt with a black tie and a gilet style jumper over the top. To Paul's immediate left is a police officer in full uniform looking at him — Paul Grabham was jailed for at least 19 years for his wife's murder

Morse discovered small signs of blood on the wall and floor, which would prove crucial in building the case against Paul Grabham.

The findings of the pathology team and the forensic evidence would ultimately help bring Kirsty's killer to justice.

The investigation was a complex and challenging one, but the dedication of the police and forensic teams led to the truth being uncovered.

The case highlights the importance of thorough investigation and the need to listen to the concerns of those closest to the victim.

As the documentary reveals, the story of Kirsty's murder is a tragic one, but it also serves as a reminder of the importance of justice and the need to support those affected by violence.

The police and forensic teams worked tirelessly to build a case against Paul Grabham, and their efforts ultimately led to his conviction.

Hayley and Kirsty Wilkinson are two girls aged approximately five and three. Hayley, left, has chest-length blonde hair with a long fringe brushed to the side. Kirsty has blonde hair worn in two bunches. They are wearing identical turquoise jumpers with irregular white lines forming patterns on it. They are both smiling at the camera standing in front of bookshelves. — Sisters Hayley and Kirsty Wilkinson "really loved each other", leaving Hayley destroyed by Kirsty's death, their mother says

The discovery of blood in the flat was a significant breakthrough in the case, and it helped to piece together the events of that fateful night.

An inspection of the flat revealed stains on the newly painted ceiling, and further investigation uncovered blood in other areas, including the bathroom.

Forensic analysis revealed a DNA match with Kirsty, and tiny bloodstains were also found on Grabham's clothing.

To build a solid case against Grabham, investigators needed to establish that he had moved Kirsty's body to the underpass.

Mobile phone records showed that Grabham's phone was at the location where Kirsty's body was found at 10:30 on 31 March, as he had sent and received a text message from that location at the time.

In January 2010, Grabham's trial for Kirsty's murder began, and he was found guilty on 4 February.

Grabham received a life sentence with a minimum term of 19 years.

Roberts recalled the trial, noting that Grabham's demeanor remained unchanged throughout, with no visible emotional response.

The consequences of Kirsty's death would take another devastating turn.

Kirsty had two older sisters, one of whom, Hayley, was just 16 months older and shared a particularly close bond with Kirsty.

According to Cathy, the sisters were incredibly close, with Hayley expressing her grief by saying, "A part of me has been torn away; I feel like I'm unable to live without my little sister."

Hayley's life took a turn for the worse as she began drinking heavily, and she eventually died in Cathy's arms at Walsgrave Hospital in Coventry.

The loss of two young lives was a tragic outcome, with both sisters gone far too soon.

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Aberdeen to unveil new manager soon with Docherty set to take assistant role

Aberdeen has bolstered its interim management team with the return of Tony Docherty, who previously served as an assistant manager, to support Peter Leven, amid anticipation of a permanent appointment announcement that sporting director Lutz Pfannenstiel had indicated would be made “imminently”.

Ross County parted ways with Tony Docherty in December, and he has now taken on a new role.

Aberdeen have brought in former assistant manager Tony Docherty to support Peter Leven's interim management team, despite sporting director Lutz Pfannenstiel indicating that a permanent appointment was imminent.

Docherty's return to Aberdeen comes just a week after Eirik Horneland, a former coach of Rosenborg, Brann, and Saint-Etienne, emerged as a top contender to succeed Jimmy Thelin, who was sacked earlier.

As Aberdeen delays making a full-time appointment, speculation surrounding Eirik Horneland's availability has arisen, with reports suggesting the 50-year-old Norwegian may not be able to take on the role until summer.

Since Jimmy Thelin's dismissal on January 4, Lutz Pfannenstiel has been leading the search for a replacement, and he confirmed that Tony Docherty would be joining the team to assist Peter Leven during the interim period.

Dundee Utd are facing a challenging schedule, with four matches in 14 days set to take place on a weather-affected pitch.

According to Stavrum, Eirik Horneland's coaching style, characterized by intensity, would be a good fit for Aberdeen.

Tony Docherty initially joined Aberdeen in 2013 as part of Derek McInnes' management team and spent eight years at the club.

Before his stint at Aberdeen, Docherty served as McInnes' assistant at Kilmarnock and later managed Dundee and Ross County, but his time at Ross County ended in December when he was let go with the team at the bottom of the Championship.

Lutz Pfannenstiel praised Tony Docherty's experience, stating that he has a deep understanding of the club and will be a valuable asset during the transition period.

Pfannenstiel highlighted Docherty's extensive knowledge of the Scottish Premiership, gained through his experience as both a coach and manager, which will be beneficial to the team in the short term.

The club's managerial search is nearing its conclusion, and an announcement regarding the new head coach is expected soon, according to Pfannenstiel.

Peter Leven, who is serving as caretaker manager for the third time, expressed his enthusiasm for Tony Docherty's appointment.

Leven welcomed Docherty's return, stating that his experience will be a significant boost to the team, particularly during the upcoming matches.

Leven noted that Docherty was eager to join the team and that his presence will provide valuable support during both training sessions and matches.

Eirik Horneland left his position at Saint-Etienne in early February, at which point his team was fourth in France's second tier.

If Aberdeen decides to wait until summer for Horneland to take over, it will be similar to the six-month delay that occurred when Jimmy Thelin joined the club from Elfsborg in the summer of 2024.

For the latest news, analysis, and fan perspectives on Aberdeen, visit our dedicated page.

News

Peter Murrell faces allegations of misusing £459,000 in funds over 12 years

Allegations have been made that he bought various items, such as luxury goods, jewellery, cosmetics, two cars and a motorhome, in an improper manner.

Peter Murrell, the former chief executive of the Scottish National Party, is facing allegations of embezzling £459,000 from the party over a 12-year period.

Peter Murrell looking off to his right while sitting in a room. He is wearing a black suit, white shirt and dark coloured tie. — Peter Murrell is due to appear in court next Friday for a preliminary hearing

An indictment document obtained by BBC News outlines the case against Murrell, who is the estranged husband of former Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon.

The alleged embezzlement is said to have occurred between August 2010 and January 2023, according to the indictment.

It is claimed that Murrell used party funds to purchase luxury items, including jewellery, cosmetics, and vehicles, such as two cars and a motorhome.

The Scottish Sun was the first to report on the details of the indictment.

A preliminary hearing in the case is scheduled to take place at the High Court in Glasgow on Friday, 20 February, where Murrell is expected to appear.

During his initial court appearance at Edinburgh Sheriff Court, Murrell made no plea and was subsequently granted bail.

Murrell's arrest in 2023 was part of Operation Branchform, a police investigation into the SNP's funding and finances, which led to him being charged with embezzlement in April 2024.

A police van and a police officer outside Murrell's home in April 2023. — Murrell was arrested in 2023 as part of a probe into the SNP's finances

Although Sturgeon was questioned by police as part of the investigation, she is no longer considered a suspect.

BBC News has obtained a copy of the indictment against Murrell ahead of his upcoming court appearance.

It is worth noting that the indictment is subject to change until the case is heard in court and may be amended throughout the judicial process.

The indictment alleges that Murrell purchased a £124,550 motorhome for personal use and created false documents to justify the expense as a legitimate party expenditure.

Murrell is also accused of using £57,500 of party funds to buy a Jaguar I-PACE car in 2019, and falsifying an invoice to conceal the true nature of the purchase.

Furthermore, it is alleged that when the Jaguar was sold in 2021, Murrell deposited more than £47,000 into his personal bank account.

The indictment also claims that Murrell embezzled £16,489 from the SNP to partially fund the purchase of a Volkswagen Golf in 2016.

A list of over 80 retailers is included in the indictment, where Murrell allegedly made purchases totalling more than £159,000 between 2014 and 2022, using party credit or charge cards for personal expenses.

The retailers named in the indictment include Harrods, the Royal Mint, John Lewis, Homebase, and Argos, among others.

It is alleged that Murrell used SNP credit or charge cards to make these purchases and then inserted false or inaccurate accounting codes and descriptions into the party's accounting systems.

The indictment also accuses Murrell of making purchases worth over £81,600 through Amazon using the same method.

Murrell served as the SNP's chief executive for 22 years before his departure.

Murrell and Sturgeon were married in 2010, but announced their separation in January 2025, after being together for many years.

News

Bangladesh Nationalist Party Wins Landslide in Country’s First Poll Since Youth-Led Protests

The public is looking forward to a shift back to democratic governance, following a 15-year period of authoritarian leadership by Sheikh Hasina.

In a significant shift in the country's political landscape, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has achieved a decisive majority in parliament, 18 months after widespread protests led to the ousting of Sheikh Hasina, the country's longest-serving prime minister.

Supporters of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) show a victory sign in front of a banner with Tarique Rahman’s photo, as the results project BNP's victory in the 13th general election, in Dhaka, Bangladesh, February 13, 2026. REUTERS/Mohammad Ponir Hossain — Tarique Rahman has been out of the country for 17 years. He has promised democracy will be restored

The BNP secured over two-thirds of the seats in the recent general election, with the Jamaat party, the main Islamist party in the country, coming in second; meanwhile, the Awami League, led by Hasina, was not allowed to participate in the election.

As the BNP's leader, Tarique Rahman is poised to become the next prime minister, facing significant challenges in revitalizing the economy and restoring democratic principles after 15 years of authoritarian rule under Hasina's leadership.

In a concurrent referendum, voters also expressed support for comprehensive democratic reforms, which are expected to shape the country's future.

Following Friday prayers in Dhaka, Tarique Rahman expressed gratitude to his supporters, stating, "I am grateful for the love you have shown me"; his party has chosen not to hold a victory procession.

Rahman, who was elected to parliament for the first time, was among the 212 successful BNP candidates; according to the Election Commission, voter turnout was 59.44%.

This marks a significant turnaround for Rahman, who spent 17 years in self-imposed exile in London before taking over as party leader after his mother, former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, passed away in December.

During his campaign, Rahman pledged to restore democratic principles and practices in the country.

The new government will need to address pressing issues, including economic revitalization, controlling rising food prices, and creating employment opportunities for the country's large youth population.

Rebuilding relations with neighboring India is also a key priority for the incoming government.

In the aftermath of his victory, Rahman received a congratulatory call from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who acknowledged his "remarkable victory".

Modi took to social media to reaffirm India's commitment to promoting peace, progress, and prosperity in both countries, citing their deep historical and cultural ties.

Although the BNP has pledged to bring about change, the party has faced criticism in the past for corruption and alleged human rights abuses during its previous tenure in government in the early 2000s.

The recent election represents a pivotal moment for the country, with one of the two main parties achieving a significant victory, presenting both opportunities and risks.

Proposed constitutional reforms include introducing term limits for the prime minister, establishing a directly elected upper house of parliament, strengthening presidential powers, and increasing judicial independence.

The reforms also aim to increase female representation in parliament, an area where significant progress is still needed, as evidenced by the limited number of successful female candidates in the recent election.

As the newly elected leader, Tarique Rahman will face intense scrutiny as he works to deliver on his promises to a predominantly young electorate eager for change, many of whom participated in the student-led protests that ultimately led to Hasina's removal and paved the way for the February 12 election.