92-Year-Old Admits Killing Wife in Suspected Failed Suicide Pact

Laurence Billam has admitted to suffocating his wife, Shirley, with a pillow at their home in Devon before taking an overdose of prescribed medication. Police and paramedics responded to the couple's sheltered accommodation in Exeter on Sunday, April 19, where Mrs. Billam, a retired shop owner, was pronounced dead at the scene.

An investigation led to the arrest of her husband. On Thursday, Billam pleaded guilty to manslaughter by diminished responsibility, having denied murder. Prosecutors had previously informed Exeter Magistrates' Court that the couple allegedly decided to end their lives together, with Billam reportedly not wanting to leave his wife with responsibilities.

Notes were found explaining Billam's actions, but family members raised concerns for the couple's welfare, prompting police to visit their residence. Mrs. Billam was found to have been smothered, while her husband was taken to the hospital after ingesting an overdose of medication.

Appearing via video link from Exeter Prison on Thursday, the 92-year-old pleaded guilty while wearing a beige t-shirt. He spoke clearly when answering questions, though he was heard to say "sorry" when asked for his name, as he is hard of hearing. Members of the Billam family were present in court for the proceedings.

Judge James Patrick, who described the case as "tragic," acknowledged it was a "very difficult day" for the family. The court heard that three psychiatric reports had been prepared, and the plea of unlawful killing was accepted. No pre-sentence report has yet been compiled.

Defense barrister Lee Bremridge stated that social care was needed for an urgent assessment regarding a potential placement for Billam. Judge Patrick emphasized the need for social services involvement to proceed "sooner rather than later." Billam indicated he understood the court's direction to cooperate with the reports. The case was adjourned for sentencing on November 20.