An 88-year-old man from Bath has avoided a prison sentence after a court found him unfit to stand trial for killing his wife of more than six decades.
A Tragic Case in Bristol Crown Court
William Haxworth, now 88, was handed a two-year supervision order by Judge William Hart at Bristol Crown Court on Friday 19 December 2025. The judge ruled that Haxworth was not fit to face a full trial for the murder of his 87-year-old wife, Delia.
The court heard that Haxworth smothered his wife at their home in Upper Lansdown Mews, Bath, in June 2024. The couple had been married for over 60 years.
The Events Leading to the Death
The tragedy came to light on 18 June 2024, when members of the public saw Haxworth threatening to jump from scaffolding. When they tried to help him, he stated he had murdered his wife, saying she had been "very ill" and adding, "I had to kill her and now it's my turn."
Police later found Delia Haxworth lifeless on a bed at the couple's home. A post-mortem examination confirmed she had been smothered.
Investigators discovered a note, apparently written by William Haxworth, which read: "It all became too much. Please forgive me and wonderful Dil. It all seemed lacking in point. You've all been so wonderful too. And so many kind neighbours. Forgive. Forgive. Will."
Medical History and Court's Decision
The court was told that Mrs Haxworth had been taken to hospital around three weeks before her death after a fall where she struck her head. However, these injuries were not believed to have caused her death. She had a history of bowel cancer treatment, but there was no evidence the disease had returned at the time.
Judge Hart described the situation as a "tragic" case. He stated that Haxworth had a "genuine belief" his wife was suffering from a terminal illness, which influenced his actions.
The judge also revealed that since proceedings began, Haxworth had made another attempt on his life, resulting in hospital treatment. Addressing the defendant directly, Judge Hart said: "I want to express my condolences to all who cared for and loved Delia, and indeed to all those who care for and love you."
Instead of a custodial sentence, the judge imposed a two-year supervision order. Under this order, Haxworth will be overseen by both a probation officer and a clinical supervisor and will undergo required medical treatment.
