A woman has been charged with murder after the tragic stabbing death of Louis Price, a 31-year-old father, on Christmas Day. The incident occurred at his home on Elm Road, Norton Canes, Stoke-on-Trent, during the early hours of December 25, 2023, at approximately 3:25 AM.
According to Staffordshire Police, officers responded to reports of man found in cardiac arrest. Upon arrival, they discovered Mr. Price gravely injured inside the property where he lived with his parents. Despite the urgent medical attention, he succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.
Following the incident, Kirsty Carless, aged 33, from Cannock, was arrested and charged with murder. Carless made her initial appearance at the North Staffordshire Justice Centre shortly after the charges were announced.
The police have stated they are continuing to support Mr. Price's grieving family during this harrowing time. Neighbors expressed their shock and sorrow, as the usually peaceful community of Norton Canes was shaken by the brutal crime. Local residents were awoken by emergency service lights, and many described hearing loud cries of distress on Christmas morning.
A neighbor, who asked not to be named, recounted, "It was about 4:30 AM on Christmas Day when I heard something. I woke up, and it was a girl crying loudly, saying over and again, ‘No, no, no!’ I didn’t know what was going on, but it sounded serious." She continued on what had transpired, saying, "We later found out the young man who lived there with his parents had been killed by someone. We heard he was stabbed to death with a knife. His poor parents were away on holiday when it happened. They were likely on holiday in the Maldives, which is where they often go during Christmas."
Mr. Price was known as both loving and dedicated to his family. He left behind six children—four daughters and two sons—who he loved dearly. A family tribute highlighted his personality, stating, "Louis was well-loved by his family and closest friends. He was a well-known member of the community, always had a smile and brought positive energy wherever he went. He always had time for anyone and would help anyone he could.”
Mr. Price's family also shared how devastated they were by his loss, especially during what is often considered a joyful time of year: "Life will never be the same without him; he leaves a huge hole in the lives of everyone who knew him. Christmas is a time we have always spent together as a family, and to lose Louis at this time is even harder." They emphasized the importance of privacy as they navigate this tragic situation, requesting against speculation about the circumstances of Louis's untimely death.
Following the incident, police confirmed they have made referrals to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) as part of their investigation. Authorities are appealing for anyone with information related to the case to come forward. They have set up both the Major Incident Public Portal and are calling on members of the public to contact the anonymous charity Crimestoppers if they have details to contribute.
The community's heartache mirrors the conversations permeated by disbelief following the violent event, as many cannot fathom such actions occurring close to home. Flowers and tributes have begun to appear outside Mr. Price's home as residents seek to honor his memory.
Louis Price was not only remembered as a devoted father but also as a passionate fisherman and lifelong Aston Villa supporter, deeply embedded within his local community. Efforts are now underway to celebrate his life and legacy amid the grief. While investigators continue to work diligently, residents are left grappling with the ramifications of this tragic event and the violent reality many hoped they would never face.
Anyone with information about Louis Price's murder is urged to report their knowledge through the designated police channels. This tragic event serves as a painful reminder of the violence lurking under the surface of everyday life, even in seemingly quiet communities.
