Man who stabbed pregnant partner to death jailed for life

A Lewisham resident, Shaine March, 45, has been sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 42 years for the brutal murder of his pregnant partner, 32-year-old Alana Odysseos, in Walthamstow last year.

March, of Rainsborough Avenue, Lewisham, pleaded guilty to the charge of murder at the Old Bailey on 17 October 2025 and was sentenced at the same court on Friday, 31 October.

According to the Metropolitan Police, officers were called to Lynmouth Road, Walthamstow, on 22 July 2024, following several emergency calls reporting a stabbing.

Alana was discovered outside her home with multiple stab wounds. Despite efforts by officers and paramedics, she died at the scene.

Neighbours reported hearing a violent argument moments before Alana emerged from the house, clutching her side and shouting, “Shaine stabbed me,” before collapsing.

A blood-stained knife, later confirmed to be the murder weapon, was found near the front door. Inside the house, police discovered Alana’s two-year-old daughter, unharmed but alone.

A few hours later, at around 4:40 a.m., police received a call from staff at a nearby café reporting a man covered in blood who claimed he had killed his wife and child. Officers arrested March shortly afterwards.

Detective Inspector Aytac Necati, who led the investigation, described the case as a tragic example of domestic abuse.

“Alana was a victim of appalling domestic abuse. She was a vulnerable young woman who wanted only to be loved and create a secure home for her daughter,” he said.

“March’s controlling and coercive behaviour intensified after discovering Alana was pregnant. He has shown no remorse for his actions. We hope this lengthy sentence gives Alana’s family some comfort, knowing he is facing justice.”

In a statement, Alana’s family expressed their devastation and called for stricter sentencing for offenders of such crimes.

“All our lives have been drastically changed by this individual’s actions. A life sentence should mean life. Because of this, Alana’s daughter will never know a mother’s love or share life’s milestones with her,” they said.

“We thank the police and CPS for their diligent work and now ask to grieve in private.”

CCTV footage, forensic evidence, and eyewitness testimony placed March at the scene before and during the attack, leading to his swift arrest and charge on 23 July 2024.

Detectives reaffirmed their commitment to supporting victims of domestic abuse, urging anyone facing controlling or violent behaviour to seek help, adding that police officers “will listen and provide the necessary support.”