A 45-year-old man named Leigh Pateman has been sentenced to life in prison for the murder of his girlfriend, Ellen Marshall. The tragic incident occurred in April 2021 when Pateman poured gasoline onto Ellen’s lap during an argument and then ignited it. Ellen suffered severe burns, with up to 80 percent of her body injured, as a result of this horrific attack. She bravely fought for nearly two years but ultimately succumbed to her injuries on March 11, 2023.
On December 2, 2024, during a court hearing at Lincoln Crown Court, Pateman received a sentence of a minimum of 27 years for his actions. He had previously served nearly 18 years for causing grievous bodily harm before he pleaded guilty to murder after Ellen’s death. Judge Simon Hirst addressed Pateman directly, noting that Ellen’s death was caused by pneumonia stemming from her terrible injuries, stating that she endured immense pain and suffering.
Ellen’s daughter, Paige Clarke, shared her grief in a victim impact statement, emphasizing the profound emotional and physical toll that her mother’s suffering took on the family. She expressed sorrow that her mother would not live to see her grandchildren.
Detective Inspector Andy McWatt described the attack as “shocking and barbaric,” reflecting on the fear and pain Ellen experienced. He expressed hope that the sentencing would bring some closure to her family after witnessing such a prolonged and painful ordeal.
Paul Wright from the Crown Prosecution Service called the whole situation “harrowing” and emphasized that the attack resulted in devastating injuries that Ellen never fully recovered from. He extended his sympathy to Ellen’s family, acknowledging the immense emotional and physical pain they had to endure due to the violent act that led to her suffering.
