Man Jailed For Life For Murder Of Teenager In Uckfield

Friday, 29 October 2021 06:12

A man has been jailed for life for the murder of a teenager in woodland near Uckfield, in East Sussex.

Lewis Ashdown was handed a life sentence with a minimum of 27 years at Lewes Crown Court yesterday (Oct 28) or the murder of 18-year-old Marc Williams in the early hours of Sunday 30 May, 2021.

Ashdown, 20, of Normansland, Fairwarp, originally appeared in court on August 23, pleading guilty to murder and possession of an offensive weapon.

The two friends had met up on the evening of Saturday May 29th to socialise and drink alcohol in woodland in Fairwarp.

Marc rang his aunt at around 11.30pm saying he was planning to head home. Despite rarely drinking alcohol, Marc's aunt said he sounded drunk.

When he didn't arrive home, the family grew worried and reported him as missing to the police.

An investigation began and it was found Ashdown was also missing, however, a search of his home address uncovered bloodied clothing hidden in a wardrobe.

Fast-time forensics found the blood belonged to Marc and a murder investigation was launched.

Ashdown was found at the address of a friend in Eastbourne and was arrested. His friend told police Ashdown had admitted killing Marc in the woods.

Officers continued to search for Marc and later found his body in woodland near Fairwarp. It was confirmed he had died as a result of multiple stab wounds.

Ashdown was charged with murder and possession of an offensive weapon, and pleaded guilty to both offences at court.

Senior investigating officer, Detective Chief Inspector Emma Vickers, said:

“This was a horrendous and unprovoked attack on a young man who thought he was simply out enjoying an evening with a friend.

“Lewis Ashdown took advantage of Marc’s trust and friendship, and killed him in a sustained and violent assault.

“Marc's family have behaved with the utmost dignity throughout this case and our thoughts are very much with them and Marc's friends at this incredibly distressing time.”