The family of a great-grandmother tragically killed in her home in a random attack has described their loss as something that will be deeply felt “for the rest of our lives.” June Fox-Roberts was remembered as a lively and determined woman who embraced life to the fullest every day. The horrific incident occurred in Llantwit Fardre near Pontypridd in November 2021 when Luke Deeley, a University of South Wales student, unlawfully entered Mrs. Fox-Roberts’ home and carried out a brutal attack using an axe.
During the court proceedings, it was revealed that Deeley, who was under the care of adult mental health services at the time, pleaded guilty to the manslaughter of the 65-year-old victim. Subsequently, he was placed under a hospital order and detained at a high-security facility with special limitations under the Mental Health Act 1983. A recent report scrutinizing the events leading up to the attack highlighted shortcomings in Deeley’s care and the coordination among relevant agencies.
The report also included a poignant tribute from Mrs. Fox-Roberts’ family, where she was described as a loving mother, grandmother, and great grandmother who cherished spending time with her extended family. Her family recalled her as a hardworking, determined, and resilient individual who overcame numerous challenges in her life. Mrs. Fox-Roberts was known for her generous nature, sense of humour, and love for nature, gardening, and animals. Her family expressed their profound grief over the senseless and premature loss of such a beloved member.
Julian Hendry, director of Hundred Families, a support group for families affected by mental health-related homicides, raised concerns regarding the adequacy of care provided to Deeley leading up to the tragic incident. He emphasized the pressing need for improved mental health services to prevent similar tragedies in the future through better risk management and information sharing between agencies and families.
Following the report’s release, Paul Mears, the chief executive of Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board, extended condolences to the Fox-Roberts family and acknowledged the deficiencies in Deeley’s care. The health board committed to implementing recommendations from the report to enhance services, including setting up a multi-disciplinary Early Intervention in Psychosis Team and improving support for carers and families affected by serious incidents.
The tragic loss of June Fox-Roberts has not only devastated her family but also raised critical questions about the adequacy of mental health care services and the need for better coordination and support for individuals in need. The report’s findings underscore the importance of learning from such incidents to prevent similar tragedies in the future and provide more effective support to those in vulnerable situations.