An axe man has been convicted of butchering his cousin to death.
Donald Excell murdered 58-year-old Rita Lambourne at her home.
She was fatally wounded in the attack and died at the scene despite the efforts of paramedics to save her.
It happened in Bexhill, East Sussex.
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Excell, 48, was arrested shortly after and later charged with her murder and possession of a weapon in a public place.
Following a trial, Excell was found guilty by a unanimous jury on both counts.
He will be sentenced at the same court in March.
The jury heard how Excell, a cousin of Rita’s, calmly entered her home at night and attacked her with an axe, causing fatal injuries.
Using extensive CCTV footage, police were able to track Excell’s movements in the hours before and after the attack, which ultimately led to his identification and arrest.
During police interviews, Excell answered “no comment” to most questions.
At first, officers couldn’t find the weapon, clothing or bag used during the murder.
But the investigation took a crucial turn when some teenage boys discovered a rucksack while fishing at a lake north of Bexhill.
Inside the bag, they found clothing and a sheath for an axe, along with a sandbag used to weigh the bag down.
Following a search of the lake, officers later discovered an axe, as reported by Need To Know.
Enquiries revealed Excell had bought an axe and a leather axe sheath in 2019, both were delivered to his home address.
Expert analysis confirmed that the wounds sustained by Rita were consistent with an axe of that size.
After the trial, Sussex Police Detective Chief Inspector Alex Campbell said: “This has been an extremely distressing case for everyone involved, particularly Rita’s family and friends, as well as the wider community.
“The verdict reflects the strength of the evidence gathered and the tireless work of our investigation teams.
“We hope that this outcome provides some measure of closure for those who loved Rita.
“Our thoughts remain firmly with them.
“We would like to thank Rita’s family for their courage, patience and dignity throughout this incredibly difficult time.”
Rita’s family paid tribute to her saying: “This marks a moment of solemn closure and collective strength for our family.
“Following the court’s verdict, which found Donald Excell guilty of the murder of Rita Marie Lambourne, we come together to honour Rita’s life.
“This outcome reflects the tireless work of the police, the judicial system, and the unwavering courage of a family that refused to allow violence to define our future.
“While no verdict can undo the loss of Rita, the court’s decision affirms accountability and upholds the principle that justice must prevail.
“Rita was more than a victim — she was a cherished presence whose kindness, laughter, and love continue to bind us together.
“Throughout this painful journey, our family found strength in one another, choosing solidarity over despair and dignity over anger.
“We ask that the public and the press remember this moment not solely for the crime that occurred, but for the resilience of those left behind and for Rita’s life – a life that will always be honoured, remembered, and deeply missed.
“Rita Marie Lambourne – mother, daughter, sister, nan, aunty, cousin, partner and friend. Your soul will always hold a place in our hearts.”
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