'No regret' killer faces life term for knife murder

A killer who told police "I do not regret it one bit" after stabbing a man to death with an 18-inch hunting knife is facing a life sentence.

Stephen Kelly, 29, attacked 31-year-old Chris McMahon at the victim's flat in Lanark on 4 October 2023.

He repeatedly stabbed father-of-two Mr McMahon to his neck and chest, hit him with a bottle and poured bleach into his mouth.

Kelly had been due to stand trial at the High Court in Glasgow but pleaded guilty to murder through his KC Richard Goddard.

The killer, who already had a history of violence, faces a life term and will learn the minimum time he will spend behind bars when he returns to court for sentencing next month.

The court heard neighbours of Mr McMahon had heard "arguing, banging and furniture being thrown about" on the night of the murder.

Prosecutor Wojciech Jajdelski said: "The noise calmed down after a loud scream, which sounded like one of fright.

"The whole incident lasted about 20 minutes."

Around an hour later, Kelly called his cousin and said: "I think I have killed him."

Kelly was found by police the next day.

He made a number of remarks about his victim to officers, including: "I will do the 25 years.

"I do not regret it one bit. I put bleach in his mouth and everything when he was dead."

He later added: "I am guilty. Might as well just get it out the way."

Kelly's previous convictions included him being part of a serious assault which involved a man being knocked unconscious.

Lady Hood deferred sentencing until 28 May in Kilmarnock and Kelly was remanded in custody.

Following Kelly's guilty plea, Det Ch Insp Campbell Jackson said: "Christopher's family have been devastated by his needless death and our thoughts remain with them.

"Nothing can bring him back, but we hope this conviction offers some closure in the form of justice.

"Violence such as this is never acceptable in our communities, and we will work tirelessly to ensure those responsible are brought to justice."