A Brutal Crime: The Tragic Case of Chrissie Everett-Hickson
A man has been sentenced to life imprisonment for the horrific murder of his girlfriend, Chrissie Everett-Hickson, on what was meant to be a joyful occasion—their one-year anniversary. The 21-year-old victim suffered devastating brain damage after being violently assaulted by Kain Tailby, 31, following a night out.
Witnesses living near the couple’s home in Riddings, Derbyshire, reported hearing disturbing “boom” noises during the brutal attack. In a moment of panic, Tailby was heard shouting, “Don’t do this to me! Wake up! Wake up! Wake up!” after the assault.
Upon his arrest, Tailby tried to justify his actions, claiming that he had been in a bad mood that day due to a disagreement regarding a cat. His attempts to downplay the situation were futile, as the evidence against him was overwhelming.
During sentencing, Judge Shaun Smith KC expressed the profound impact of Tailby’s violence, stating, “So many lives have been changed forever by your actions. Your explosion of anger snuffed out the life of your partner, Chrissie Everett-Hickson. This was an abuse of trust and power; she was entitled to feel safe in her own home.”
The tragedy unfolded on February 17 of the previous year as the couple returned from a local pub. Tailby described the altercation as “pushing and shoving” before he pinned Chrissie to the floor and struck her head several times against the kitchen floor.
In a chilling 999 call, Tailby attempted to downplay his violent actions, suggesting Chrissie had instigated the confrontation. He told the operator that she was in the bathtub, bleeding from the ear, and claimed to have tried to clean her up. When emergency services arrived, it became evident that Chrissie had sustained severe injuries, including brain damage, a fractured skull, and extensive bruising.
Despite efforts by medical professionals, Chrissie was placed on life support. Tragically, the decision was made to switch off the machines five days later on February 23, after her organs were donated.
Domestic Abuse – How to Get Help
Domestic abuse can affect anyone, regardless of gender, and does not always involve physical violence. Here are some signs that you may be in an abusive relationship:
- Emotional Abuse – This includes being belittled, blamed for the abuse, experiencing gaslighting, isolation from family and friends, and a lack of control over finances or personal choices.
- Threats and Intimidation – Some partners may threaten to cause harm to you, destroy your belongings, or engage in stalking or harassment.
- Physical Abuse – This can range from slapping or hitting to being shoved, choked, or bitten.
- Sexual Abuse – Involves unwanted touching, experiencing pain during sex, being pressured into sexual acts, or being forced to engage in sex without consent.
If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these issues, please reach out for help:
- The National Domestic Abuse Helpline, run by Refuge, is available at 0808 2000 247, free of charge, 24/7.
- Men experiencing abuse can contact Respect Men’s Advice Line at 0808 8010 327 or ManKind at 0182 3334 244.
- For individuals identifying as LGBT+, Galop can be reached at 0800 999 5428.
- If you are in immediate danger or fear for your life, always call 999.
Remember, you are not alone. Statistics show that 1 in 4 women and 1 in 7 men will experience domestic abuse in their lifetime. Every 30 seconds, police receive a call for help related to domestic abuse.
Detective Constable Jonathan Reeves remarked on the devastating effects of this tragedy, saying, “It’s impossible to convey the utter devastation that Chrissie’s family has endured since her death—all as a result of one man’s actions. Chrissie looked to Tailby for love and support, but he instead took her life in an unimaginable manner. At just 21, she had a future full of promise, and it’s a heartbreaking loss that she will never fulfill her dreams or celebrate future milestones.”
As Kain Tailby begins his lengthy prison sentence, Chrissie’s family is left to grapple with the profound grief and loss that will last a lifetime.
