Family of mother-of-four killed by husband describe their devastation
The family of a mother-of-four killed by her husband while he was experiencing a psychotic episode say they are “devastated” by her death.
Darryl Bowen, 43, has been detained indefinitely in hospital after pleading guilty to the manslaughter by diminished responsibility of Alison Bowen, 41, at their home in Kingswood, Bristol, on November 20 last year.
Bristol Crown Court was told on Thursday how Bowen, who has since been diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia, was experiencing an acute episode of psychosis at the time.
In a statement released on Friday, Mrs Bowen’s family said: “As a family we are devastated that Alison has been killed and, although we cannot repair what has been done to her and to our family, we are all pulling together to help each other as we move forward.
“What happened that day has changed our family’s world for ever but our focus is now on working together to rebuild our lives.”
Bristol Crown Court heard Bowen was experiencing religious delusions at the time he stabbed his wife to death, believing the world was ending.
Psychiatrists agreed that Bowen suffered from severe mental illness, with his psychotic episode possible caused by significant work stress.
Judge Julian Lambert detained Bowen in hospital indefinitely under sections 37 and 41 of the Mental Health Act, adding that he would not be released without the permission of the Ministry of Justice or a tribunal.
He described Mrs Bowen, a mother-of-four, as “wonderful daughter, beloved sister and a kind and devoted wife” who was “loving and nurturing” to her children.
The judge told the defendant: “She had friends across the world and was a beacon of hope and probity to many.
“She was simply an inspirational human being.
“I find it difficult to describe the epic depth of the tragedy in this case.”
Judge Lambert, who found the defendant dangerous, added that Bowen remained ill and described his recovery as “uncertain”.
Andrew Langdon KC, prosecuting, told how Bowen previously had a psychiatric episode and spent time in hospital in 2004 but was released from mental health services in 2008, after becoming symptom-free.
However, in August 2023, Bowen contacted his GP to report he was experiencing stress at work.
He was seen acting in a “bizarre and disturbed” manner in a restaurant on the day before his wife’s death.
Mr Langdon said Bowen fatally stabbed his wife multiple times with a kitchen knife on November 20, after she asked to call their pastor when he attempted to cut electricity cables in their home.
Charles Row KC represented Bowen, who appeared via video link from hospital, and said his client was experiencing “bewilderment” at what he had done.
Detective Inspector Neil Meade, of Avon and Somerset Police, said: “This was a truly tragic incident and our thoughts remain with Alison’s family as they continue to process this devastating loss.
“This was a particularly sensitive case, but this outcome will mean that Darryl Bowen will receive the medical care he clearly needs whilst making sure the public are protected.”
