On June 2, 2023, a tragic incident occurred when Paul Hughes, 28, allegedly attacked and killed Michelle Hodgkinson, 51, in Droylsden. Prosecutors assert that Hughes, who was mentally unwell, planned the attack after purchasing a knife from Asda.

Ms. Hodgkinson was discovered with multiple stab injuries on Edge Lane and was declared dead at the scene despite emergency services' efforts. The trial revealed that Hughes, a local resident, was suffering from schizophrenia at the time of the attack.

Rob Hall, the prosecutor, informed the court that Hughes had been deemed unfit to plead or stand trial, leading to a situation where the jurors must determine whether he unlawfully stabbed Hodgkinson.

The day of the incident began with Hughes leaving his home at approximately 10:45 am without informing anyone of his destination. He took a tram to Velo Park station, then proceeded to the Asda superstore, where he purchased a four-piece knife set.

After buying the knives, Hughes returned to Droylsden via tram and was seen on CCTV walking towards the canal towpath. He discarded the knife packaging and three other knives, then hid in the undergrowth by a bridge, waiting for a target.

At 12:01 pm, Michelle Hodgkinson walked by on her way to meet her mother, unaware of the danger lurking nearby. Hughes emerged from his hiding spot and attacked her from behind.

CCTV footage captured the assault, showing Hughes checking for traffic before striking. Hodgkinson suffered over 50 stab wounds, with two penetrating vital areas, resulting in massive blood loss.

After the attack, Hughes discarded evidence by dumping his gloves and fled the scene, later returning home. He was arrested early on June 3 and, after being evaluated by medics, was found unfit to communicate with police and subsequently sectioned under the Mental Health Act.

Although he will not participate in the trial, Paul Hughes is represented by Gordon Cole KC. The trial is expected to last up to five days.