Jackie Abbott murder: Deadly hammer attack triggered by 'row over Elvis tribute tickets'
The argument that led to the murder of Jackie Abbott at the hands of her husband started in a row over tickets to see an Elvis tribute band, it can be revealed today.
It is believed that the attack at the couple's home on Lodge Crescent, Netherton, started after a row over tickets to see an Elvis tribute band.
Speaking at the inquest, at Smethwick Council House, Detective Sgt Indi Basra, part of the homicide team at Harborne police station, confirmed that Mrs Abbott had been away for a few days and had returned home on December 11.
In comments which can be reported for the first time today, he said: "She and her husband were due to attend a performance of an Elvis tribute band that evening but Mr Abbott had sold his ticket on Ebay.
"An argument erupted and subsequently escalated."
Police received a call at 4.30pm on December 11 from worried neighbours, concerned about Mrs Abbott's husband fighting with one of their sons, Martyn Abbott, in the street outside their home, the inquest was told in December.
"We were told someone had died at the property" Detective Sgt Basra continued.
"Police officers and paramedics attended the scene and got through to the back of the property where Mrs Abbott was found in the back garden area. She had extensive and severe head injuries."
A hammer was recovered from the property and is believed to be the weapon used in the attack, the inquest was told.
Mrs Abbott's body was formally identified by her son Martyn and she was pronounced dead at the scene.
"Her husband, Paul Abbott admitted the offence and was charged with murder," Detective Sgt Basra said.
A pathology report revealed that the cause of death was blunt force head injuries and that Mrs Abbott had not consumed any alcohol.
Mr Abbott will be sentenced at a later date after a judge rules on aspects of the case which the prosecution and defence do not agree on.
