Full Breakdown
Convicted Murderer Shaine March Admits to Killing Pregnant Girlfriend
10/20/2025, 5:01:27 AM
Core Event: Admission of Murder by Shaine March
Shaine March, a 47-year-old convicted murderer, has admitted to killing his pregnant girlfriend, Alana Odysseos, by stabbing her 19 times at her home in Walthamstow, east London, on July 22, 2024. March, who had previously been sentenced to life imprisonment for murder, was released on licence before committing this crime. He initially pleaded guilty to manslaughter by diminished responsibility but changed his plea to guilty of murder after a defense expert withdrew support for his diminished responsibility claim.
Background & Context: March's Criminal History
March's criminal record includes a previous conviction for the murder of Andre Dummond, whom he stabbed in a McDonald's restaurant in January 2000. He was sentenced to life imprisonment for that crime. After being released on licence in early 2013, he was recalled to prison later that year following an assault on another partner. He was released again in February 2018, prior to the murder of Odysseos.
Details of the Incident
On the night of the murder, March and Odysseos, who was 32 and in the early stages of her third pregnancy, had an argument regarding the pregnancy. Witnesses reported that Odysseos expressed her desire not to terminate the pregnancy. Following the altercation, neighbors found her outside her home, bleeding from multiple stab wounds. Despite her attempts to identify March as her attacker, she succumbed to her injuries before emergency services could save her.
Official Statements & Responses
Following the guilty plea, Mr. Justice Murray discharged the jury and lifted reporting restrictions on March's prior conviction. Detective Inspector Aytac Necati, who led the investigation, commented on the case, stating, "March is a cowardly individual who showed absolutely no remorse for Alana or her family." He emphasized the devastating impact of domestic abuse, urging victims to report such behavior to the police.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics have raised concerns regarding the system that allowed March to be released on licence despite his violent history. The circumstances surrounding his release and subsequent actions have prompted discussions about the effectiveness of monitoring individuals with serious criminal backgrounds.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Shaine stabbed me, he stabbed me. Help, help.” — Alana Odysseos, as reported by witnesses.
- “Mum, I just killed a woman, and I’m going back to jail.” — Shaine March, recorded before disposing of his mobile phone.
What's Next: Sentencing
Shaine March is scheduled to be sentenced on October 31, 2024. The case has drawn attention to the broader issues of domestic violence and the risks posed by individuals with a history of violent crime.
