Today, 31-year-old Stephan Garner has been found guilty of murder, following a trial relating to the tragic death of Amber O’Brien back in April earlier this year.

Amber was found unresponsive at an address on Broadmoss Drive, Blackley, where she had sustained a number of stab wounds, eventually proving fatal.

Amber’s tragic death began a murder investigation led by our Major Incident Team (MIT), who soon identified Garner as a suspect after he disclosed the attack to a family member. He was arrested and later charged with Amber’s murder.

Garner (16/04/1995) of Somerton Court, Blackley, has now been found guilty of murder following a trial at Manchester Crown Court. Garner had previously pleaded guilty to manslaughter on the grounds of loss of control. Garner denied murdering Amber, but a jury rightfully found him guilty and he is due to be sentenced later this month.

Senior Investigating Officer Duncan Thorpe, from our Serious Crime Division, said: “Firstly, it is my hope that today’s result provides Amber’s family with a sense of justice and closure, through what has been an incredibly difficult time.

“I’d like to thank them for their continued support and strength, from the early stages of the investigation, through the court proceedings and ultimately to today’s conviction. The courage and dignity they’ve shown throughout this trial is no small feat.

“No court trial, conviction, or sentence will bring back Amber to her loving friends and family, and my thoughts remain with them as they continue battling against their devastating loss.

“The safety and protection of our communities is always our priority, and we will continue to work to reduce violence against women and bring offenders to justice.”