Man told police he would ‘miss Grand Theft Auto’ after admitting ex-partner’s murder

A man who phoned police to tell them he had killed his ex-partner ‘accidentally’ has been jailed for life.

Robert Richens said he would miss the latest version of Grand Theft Auto after he was arrested by officers at his address in Oxford.

Richens, 35, dialled 999 at 6.26am on May 30 last year to say he had killed a woman.

He is recorded telling the operator: ‘You’re not going to believe this. I think I accidentally killed someone.

‘She’s not moving’, he is heard sobbing.

He then says with conviction: ‘I did not mean to kill this person. I did not mean to do it.’

His victim, Rachael Vaughan, 40, was found at her home and was declared dead despite attempts by emergency services to save her.

Richens was arrested and charged at his home on the same day.

After being taken to a police station, Richens remarked he would ‘miss GTA6’.

Despite being assured by the officer he had ‘ages’ before the game, which has been slated for November this year, was due to be released, Richens replied he was likely to be jailed for life.

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Richens added he couldn’t get the events ‘out of my head’ and that he may have done a runner.

He pleaded guilty to one count of murder on December 12.

Following a hearing at Oxford Crown Court, Richens was sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 16 years and one month behind bars.

Senior investigation officer DCI Stuart May said: ‘My thoughts remain with Rachael Vaughan’s family and with everyone who loved her as they continue to face what is an unimaginable loss. 

‘Rachael was taken from them in the very place she should have felt safest — her own home.

‘Robert Richens’ actions were heartless. He left Rachael alone in her house, made no attempt to help her or seek medical attention and he only contacted police when he had nowhere else to turn. 

‘Today’s sentence means that Richens will now face the consequences of his merciless actions.’

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