Crawley: Family pays tribute to murdered mum Holly Sanchez

Holly Sanchez was found dead in a bungalow in Oates Walk, Crawley, on May 13, 2023, with multiple injuries suffered during an abusive relationship with Ryan Evans.

The 32-year-old had previously told police she was scared Evans would kill her if he found out she revealed to officers the abuse she suffered by him, including that he kept “beating the sh*t” out of her.

Evans was on bail conditions which said he must not contact Ms Sanchez directly or indirectly, when she was found dead on the floor in his lounge.

Jurors at Brighton Crown Court on Tuesday unanimously found the 31-year-old guilty of murder, one count of unlawful wounding, assault occasioning actual bodily harm and controlling and coercive behaviour.

He was found not guilty of another count of unlawful wounding.

Ms Sanchez’s family said they missed her “infectious” smile and hoped the case will raise awareness of the devastating consequences of domestic violence.

Ryan Evans (Image: Sussex Police)

“Holly was a daughter, granddaughter, aunt, sister, and most importantly a mother,” they said.

“We miss Holly and her infectious laugh every day. Holly was taken from us and her children by a cruel and evil monster. We hope that the sentencing reflects Evans’ brutal treatment of Holly over the last six weeks of her life.

“We would like to thank the investigation team and our family liaison officers for all of their help and support throughout one of the most traumatic years. We would appreciate space and privacy while we process the terrible things we have heard and seen while we have been at court.

“We hope that Holly’s case raises awareness of how quickly domestic violence can have fatal consequences. We hope that Holly’s story will reach victims of domestic violence that are too scared to speak out and ask for help. We also hope that it raises awareness to the families of those who are currently suffering abuse and we would encourage families to pay close attention to any small changes of behaviour by their loved ones.”

Evans remains remanded in custody ahead of sentencing at a court location to be confirmed on September 13.

Two further people were arrested in connection with the investigation but were released with no further action.

The Independent Office of Police Conduct (IOPC) has told Sussex Police to improve its handling of domestic violence cases following Ms Sanchez’s death.

It found wider recommendations were needed into the force’s policing of domestic violence following a review.

An IOPC spokesman said the investigation found no breach of professional standards by individual police officers but found learning recommendations for the force on policing domestic violence.

Detective Superintendent Debbie White, the Senior Investigating Officer, said: “Firstly, I’d like to commend Ms Sanchez’ family who have assisted us throughout this investigation and bravely stood before court to provide vital witness testimonies.

“They have also had to hear the harrowing description of injuries inflicted on Ms Sanchez by Ryan Evans, which included causing significant hand and facial injuries. He also took financial advantage of her and made repeated threats of violence – before his offending escalated and ultimately led to her death in May 2023.

“No one should ever have to endure a violent relationship, and that’s why we offer a scheme – known as Clare’s Law – where people can request information on their partner or ex-partner’s criminal history to see if they are at risk of domestic violence.

“It means more people are making informed decisions on their own safety much sooner, potentially saving lives.

“I’d also like to thank all other witnesses who came forward to provide evidence, which assisted in our investigation to bring this violent offender to justice.”