Becky Watts: Nathan Matthews' Shocking Crime
Have you ever wondered what drives someone to commit a heinous crime? How can a family member turn into a cold-blooded killer?
In the book The Evil Within, Darren Galsworthy delves into the chilling case of Becky Watts' murder. You'll discover the disturbing details of Becky Watts and Nathan Matthews' tragic story, exploring the events that led to this shocking crime.
Keep reading to uncover the twisted mind of a killer and the devastating impact on a family torn apart by betrayal.
The Disturbing Truth Behind Nathan Matthews' Actions
When you hear about the tragic case of Becky Watts and Nathan Matthews, it's hard not to feel a mix of shock and sadness. The story of Becky Watts' murder at the hands of her stepbrother, Nathan Matthews, is truly chilling. Let's dive into the dark details of this horrifying crime and explore the twisted role Matthews played in Becky's untimely death.
A Troubling Obsession
Nathan Matthews harbored a disturbing fixation on teenage girls. This wasn't just a passing phase - it was a deep-seated issue that would eventually lead to tragedy. Matthews and his partner, Shauna Hoare, even exchanged messages about kidnapping a young girl, finding humor in something so sinister.
But the red flags didn't stop there. Matthews had a history of allowing girls as young as twelve to ride in his car. While this behavior raised eyebrows, it wasn't taken as seriously as it should have been. Looking back, these were clear warning signs of his dangerous tendencies.
The Calculated Attack
As time went on, Matthews' behavior towards Becky became increasingly concerning. What started as minor domestic annoyances gradually evolved into a sophisticated plan to harm her. In a twisted turn of events, Matthews seemed to be building a closer relationship with Becky in the time leading up to her death. Now, we know this was likely a strategy to gain her trust.
The Horrific Crime
The details that emerged during the trial were nothing short of horrifying. Matthews suffocated Becky, then dismembered her body in an attempt to cover up his crime. He even tried to implicate an accomplice falsely.
When authorities finally discovered Becky's remains, it was Matthews who led them to the location. DNA evidence placed both Matthews and Hoare at the crime scene. Perhaps most chilling of all was their behavior after the murder - they casually ordered Chinese food as if nothing had happened.
A Failed Cover-up
Matthews made efforts to disguise his actions, using cleaning products and a saw to make Becky's death appear accidental. Initially, he claimed he only intended to scare Becky into changing her behavior. But this escalated to abduction and ultimately led to her tragic end.
Justice Served
The jury's verdict brought some closure to this horrific case. Matthews was found guilty of murder and sentenced to life in prison with a minimum of 33 years. Hoare, while not convicted of murder, was found guilty of manslaughter and received a 17-year sentence.
The brutality of their crime underscored the utter callousness with which they acted, robbing a young woman of her life just as she was entering adulthood.
The Family's Heartbreak
For Becky's family, especially her father Darren Galsworthy, the pain of this loss was immeasurable. Darren found himself drowning in grief, weighed down by guilt, and driven by a desire for justice.
Darren struggled with alcoholism and intense feelings of guilt after Becky's death. He sought solace by transforming Becky's bedroom into a space he thought she would have loved, often conversing with her memory as he grappled with his profound grief.
During the time Becky was missing, Darren made emotional pleas on the radio for her return. The stress of the situation took a physical toll on him, causing significant weight loss. When he discovered Matthews' involvement in Becky's murder, he was overwhelmed with disgust and anger.
A Family Torn Apart
The tragedy put an immense strain on Darren's marriage to Anjie, Matthews' mother. Anjie was devastated by her son's betrayal, torn between her love for him and her grief for Becky. The couple retreated into privacy, finding solace in television shows and attempting to find relief on holiday, but their thoughts always returned to Becky.
Despite these challenges, Darren consistently reaffirmed his love and solidarity with Anjie. They persevered through the harrowing experience, finding strength in each other as they dealt with their grief.
A Community United in Grief
Becky's sudden passing had a profound impact on the community, resulting in an unprecedented outpouring of unity and sympathy for her family. The public rallied behind the #FindBecky social media campaign, actively participating in the search for her.
In tribute to Becky, people laid flowers, stuffed animals, and various mementos at her home. Her memorial service saw such a large turnout that roads had to be closed, with many wearing tribute T-shirts in a show of solidarity.
Becky's Lasting Legacy
In the wake of this tragedy, a charitable foundation was established in Becky's honor. With the motto "United in Support," the organization aims to provide crucial support to families dealing with missing relatives and to promote awareness to prevent similar tragedies.
While nothing can undo the horrific actions of Nathan Matthews, Becky's story has resonated deeply with many, sparking a powerful display of community solidarity. Her legacy has become a catalyst for positive change and collective support, proving that even in the darkest of times, humanity's capacity for compassion can shine through.