Hospital order for man who killed grandfather

A man who stabbed his 81-year-old grandfather to death was given a hospital order under the Mental Health Act today, police said.

William Barnard, 30, of Stapleford, Nottinghamshire, attacked John McGrath and his wife Mabel, 84, at their home in Thorpe Close, Stapleford on July 24 last year.

Mr McGrath died from a stab wound and Mrs McGrath suffered serious injuries requiring hospital treatment but has since recovered.

Today Barnard, who suffers from mental illness, was sentenced at Nottingham Crown Court to a hospital order under section 37 of the Mental Health Act with restrictions under section 41, police said.

He had previously pleaded guilty to manslaughter of his grandfather, on the grounds of diminished responsibility, and admitted attacking his grandmother.

Detective Inspector Karen Pearson, of Nottinghamshire Police, said: "This is a tragic case for everyone involved.

"Sadly in some instances where mental health issues are involved, people can become ill and lose control, and as in this case it can result in tragic consequences.

"It will be hard for Mr McGrath's family to come to terms with his death, knowing the person responsible is his grandson, but the family have pulled together and been extremely dignified and cooperative throughout our investigation.

"I hope the result today means William Barnard gets the treatment he desperately needs and that it brings a sense of closure to what happened."