A man has admitted beheading a former Nottingham Trent University student at the home they shared.
Timothy Allen, 40, pleaded guilty to manslaughter on the grounds of diminished responsibility at a crown court hearing.
Police had rushed to the house he shared with scientist Samantha Ho, 39, in St Neots, Cambridgeshire, on August 29 last year after reports of a disturbance.
Officers found Samantha’s body and discovered Allen with serious injuries.
A post mortem examination later confirmed Miss Ho died from multiple cuts to the neck.
Allen was taken to hospital and arrested after he recovered.
Google Streetview: Samantha’s body was found at the house on Curlew Place, St Neot’s
He entered his plea on Friday and has been remanded in custody to re-appear for sentencing on March 17.
She was a well-respected, kind-hearted young lady
In a statement a spokesman for Samantha’s family said: “Samantha was a well-loved, well respected, kind hearted young lady.
“She had a bright future ahead of her with lots of aspirations. She wanted to be a great scientist, have time to travel the world, realise her dreams and spend more time with family.
“However, on that fateful day, August 29, 2015, Samantha was tragically taken away from us. That day was a day where a part of us died. No plea nor verdict can bring Samantha back though we put our faith in the justice system to make amends to the crime.”
Detective Chief Inspector Richard Wall from the major crime unit said: “This is a tragic case, where a women lost her life and families have been torn apart.
“Timothy Allen’s plea today will bring closure to the police investigation but will never bring Samantha back.
“Our deepest sympathies are with her family and friends at this difficult time.”
