Man found guilty of murdering his partner in Crawley

A man has been found guilty of the murder of a 32-year-old woman in Crawley.

Local resident Holly Sanchez was tragically found deceased at a bungalow in Oates Walk around 9am on 13 May, 2023.

She died as a result of multiple injuries suffered during a domestic abusive relationship with 31-year-old Ryan Evans.

Holly’s family have released this tribute to her:

“Holly was a daughter, granddaughter, aunt, sister, and most importantly a mother. We miss Holly and her infectious laugh every day. Holly was taken from us and her children by a cruel and evil monster. We hope that the sentencing reflects Evans’ brutal treatment of Holly over the last six weeks of her life.

“We would like to thank the investigation team and our family liaison officers for all of their help and support throughout one of the most traumatic years. We would appreciate space and privacy while we process the terrible things we have heard and seen while we have been at court.

“We hope that Holly’s case raises awareness of how quickly domestic violence can have fatal consequences. We hope that Holly’s story will reach victims of domestic violence that are too scared to speak out and ask for help. We also hope that it raises awareness to the families of those who are currently suffering abuse and we would encourage families to pay close attention to any small changes of behaviour by their loved ones.”

Evans, of Oates Walk, Crawley, was arrested and charged with murder. He denied the offence and was remanded in custody to appear before Lewes Crown Court for trial on 24 June.

Evans was further charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm, coercive and controlling behaviour and two counts of causing grievous bodily harm, all relating to Ms Sanchez.

These four additional offences were in relation to incidents previously reported to Sussex Police. Evans was interviewed and bailed with conditions not to contact the victim directly or indirectly, and Ms Sanchez was referred to the relevant safeguarding agencies as the alleged offences were investigated.

The CPS subsequently authorised these further charges – at the request of Sussex Police – following the murder charge, all of which Evans denied.

On Tuesday 16 July, the jury returned a unanimous guilty verdict on the offences of murder, assault occasioning actual bodily harm, coercive and controlling behaviour and one count of causing grievous bodily harm; Evans was found not guilty of the second count of grievous bodily harm.

He remains remanded in custody ahead of sentencing at a court location to be confirmed on 13 September.

Two further people were arrested in connection with the investigation, but were released with no further action.

Detective Superintendent Debbie White, the Senior Investigating Officer, said: “Firstly, I’d like to commend Ms Sanchez’ family who have assisted us throughout this investigation and bravely stood before court to provide vital witness testimonies.

“They have also had to hear the harrowing description of injuries inflicted on Ms Sanchez by Ryan Evans, which included causing significant hand and facial injuries. He also took financial advantage of her and made repeated threats of violence – before his offending escalated and ultimately led to her death in May 2023.

“No one should ever have to endure a violent relationship, and that’s why we offer a scheme – known as Claire’s Law – where people can request information on their partner or ex-partner’s criminal history to see if they are at risk of domestic violence.

“It means more people are making informed decisions on their own safety much sooner, potentially saving lives.

“I’d also like to thank all other witnesses who came forward to provide evidence, which assisted in our investigation to bring this violent offender to justice.”

You can read more about the Claire’s Law scheme here.