Man Stabbed Partner to Death Then Caused Gas Explosion in East London Home, Court Hears

A woman was fatally stabbed by her angry partner, who then caused a gas explosion at their east London home, a court heard.

Annabel Rook, 46, was repeatedly punched and stabbed by Clifton George at their house on Dumont Road in Stoke Newington in June 2025, prosecutors said.

William Emlyn Jones KC, opening the case for the prosecution, told jurors that George argued with Rook. He punched her during the argument, tried to strangle her, went to the kitchen for a knife and returned to stab her to death.

He was undoubtedly very angry with her, Emlyn Jones said, adding that the jury would hear why.

The couple, who were not married, had lived together for more than a decade. Their relationship had difficulties and deteriorated significantly by mid-2025, with separation appearing imminent.

Investigators believe George tried and failed to ignite gas using electrical switches and the kitchen hob. He then started a fire in the basement with burning paper, causing a gas explosion directly under the living room where Rook's body lay.

Emlyn Jones told the jury the blast lifted floorboards, shifted furniture and caused significant damage to the property and the house next door. It also made an almighty bang.

George was found on the kitchen floor covered in blood and broken glass. The roof of the kitchen extension had blown off. Neighbors shouted for him to get out, but he began stabbing himself in the neck.