A man accused of killing and raping a female showjumper started his trial on Tuesday – he had denied the murder and rape of Katie Simpson.

Jonathan Creswell, 36, has since been found dead.

Details of What Happened

The second day of the trial was due to begin earlier Wednesday but the jury was informed the 36-year-old passed away in non-suspicious circumstances. 

Court heard that Creswell had previously had an ‘illicit’ sexual relations with 21-year-old Simpson, but became angry after he learned the 21-year-old was in a relationship with someone else.

Charges Against Creswell

Sam Magee KC, a lawyer for the prosecution, told the jury that Creswell had raped, strangled and killed Simpson.

Creswell tried to ‘cover up’ what happened by claiming Simpson’s death ‘was as a result of suicide.’

Creswell then pretended he was ‘the unfortunate individual’ who discovered Ms Simpson’s body, according to the prosecution.

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The court heard Christina and Creswell then got together and went on to have two children. Katie later began working with them.

Court Sentencing

Judge Neil Rafferty KC told the jury that the trial process had concluded and discharged them.

He said three co-accused who had pleaded guilty before the beginning of the trial would have their sentencing brought forward. He adjourned the case until May 10.

Sentencing against the three co-accused women will now be brought forward, per BBC Northern Ireland.