A man has been convicted of killing his ex-partner following a row over loud music at his Dudley home.

Rickardo Wilson initially claimed mother-of-eight Claire Harris was drunk after she was found lying on the floor by one of her sons.

The son had visited Wilson's address in Cinder Bank, Netherton, after becoming concerned over the whereabouts of his mother who hadn't returned home as planned on 24 January this year. 

After Wilson finally answered the door the son found his mother sprawled on the floor. The 44-year-old had suffered severe head and neck injuries and was confirmed dead at the scene.

In a police statement, Wilson claimed a struggle had ensued between him and Ms Harris following a disagreement over the volume of the music they were playing. The 50-year-old was convicted of manslaughter on Wednesday, following a trial at Stafford Crown Court. He will be sentenced at a later date. Inspector Paul Joyce, from the Force CID team, said:

“Following a detailed investigation, we have finally got the answers Ms Harris’ family have been waiting for in this tragic case. I hope this can give the family some comfort, knowing the person responsible for their loved one’s death has been dealt with accordingly.”

A tribute from Ms Harris’ family following her death said: “Mom was always there when we needed her most and always had a great story to tell. She was our rock when our dad sadly passed after a battle with cancer in March 2017.

“Having to deal with losing both our parents in the space of nine months has been the most heart-breaking thing we will ever have to face. She was taken from us all too soon, and it’s left a big hole in our hearts. Our memories will live on in all of her children.”