Claw hammer attack

A Gloucester man who attacked his ex-partner with a claw hammer has been found guilty of attempted murder.

38-year-old Andrew Elijah Squire attacked the 33 year old in her home in Newton Road in Cheltenham on June 12th last year,  leaving her with serious head injuries.

He fled and was arrested by Gloucestershire Constabulary on June 16th and charged with attempted murder.

Detective Constable Phil Howes has been leading this investigation, says;

“This was a vicious and brutal attack, where Andrew Squire left his victim to die.  He is a dangerous man with a serious temper.

“The impact of his actions should not be underestimated, thankfully the victim is making a good recovery and I hope this conviction is some comfort to her and her family, and allows them to start move on with their lives.

“This has been an incredibly difficult time for all involved and I would like to take this opportunity to thank Bethan for her cooperation and assistance with this case.  

“Her bravery and resolve is a credit to her, she has not allowed this horrendous attack to permanently affect her or her family.

“I would also like to thank all the officers who have worked tirelessly to ensure this man was brought to justice.

“Any form of domestic violence is abhorrent and I hope that this conviction shows that Gloucestershire Constabulary will work tirelessly to ensure offenders are brought to justice and that victims are allowed to feel safe and secure again.”

In a statement released following his conviction Squire’s victim Bethan said;

"This has been an incredibly traumatic and difficult time for myself, my family and my friends. Andrews' conviction is a huge weight off my mind, knowing he is locked away, and no longer able to hurt me or any other person again.

“Not only did I suffer serious physical injury which I am still recovering from, the emotional impact has also been incredibly hard to deal with.

“I really want to thanks all those people and organisations who have helped me. In particular Cheltenham police and ambulance crew, Cheltenham General Hospital, Frenchay hospital, the independent domestic violence advisor from Novas Scarman Group, County Community Project, The Listening Post, and many others; you know who you are. I would not have got through this without you.”

Squire is due to be sentenced at Bristol Crown Court on May 17.