Man convicted of murdering long-term partner at home in Stoke Newington

A man has been found guilty of murder after killing his partner in a fit of rage before attempting to set the house alight by causing a gas explosion. Annabel Rook, aged 46, was tragically killed after being stabbed multiple times.

The successful conviction highlights the Met’s commitment to bringing dangerous offenders to justice and tackling violence against women and girls.

Following the conviction, detectives reaffirmed their resolve to protect women and girls across London. They recognised that domestic abuse has a devastating and lasting impact on victim-survivors, families and communities – and encouraged anyone experiencing such abuse to come forward and report it to police. Officers will listen, provide support and do everything in their power to help.

On Wednesday, 3 June, a jury at Snaresbrook Crown Court found Clifton George, 44 (13.03.81), of Dumont Road, Hackney guilty of murder.

Detective Chief Inspector Joanna Yorke, who led the investigation, said:

“Annabel was a cherished daughter, mother, sister and friend. She was also a highly respected charity worker who co-founded an organisation dedicated to supporting vulnerable women fleeing domestic and sexual abuse. Through art and drama, she helped them rebuild their confidence and reclaim their independence.

“It is a particularly tragic and poignant reality that Annabel fell victim to the very kind of violence she had so passionately sought to challenge. She should have been safe in her own home and protected by the person who claimed to love her.

“Our detectives worked relentlessly throughout the investigation, analysing digital evidence including Annabel’s personal notes, alongside hundreds of messages and voice notes. This work uncovered the abuse she had endured, as well as a deterioration in George’s behaviour.

“Annabel will not be defined by her tragic death or by George’s terrible actions. I would like to commend her family, some of whom gave evidence during the trial, for their immense bravery and strength. I hope today’s conviction will bring them a measure of comfort as they continue to grieve her loss.”

Peter Rook, Annabel's father, added: "Annabel was a truly wonderful woman. One of the world's life enhancers. Above all else, she was a much loved mother devoted to her two fine sons. She was also a superb daughter, sister and, for so many, a close friend. Ironically, she was at the height of her powers in her tireless work to help vulnerable women.

"She had so much more to give. At least now there's been justice. But nothing will bring her back. We can be sure that her spirit will continue to inspire so many. During the trial, it has been almost unbearable hearing the years she herself suffered abuse and then the nature of the horrendous attack. It was clear on the evidence that until the very end, she was incredibly courageous, trying to help others rather than safeguarding herself.

"She dedicated her life to helping others. She worked in refugee camps and schools. She co-founded MamaSuze to provide creativity and support for refugee women. She lived 46 altruistic years in which she gave so much to so many. We know that it would have been Annabel’s wish that her life should not be defined by her tragic death, but by the rich legacy of love and support for the vulnerable."

The investigation

On Tuesday, 17 June 2025 at 04:57hrs police were called to reports of a gas explosion with a person trapped inside an address.

Officers attended alongside the London Ambulance Service and the London Fire Brigade.

The gas explosion had caused significant damage to the house, meaning the property was initially inaccessible. George was found in the back garden, bleeding heavily from his neck and arms while attempting to stab himself.

Confronted with an alarming scene, a responding officer demonstrated initiative and composure, remaining by George’s side and maintaining a back-and-forth conversation as paramedics treated him. Through their calm and reassuring manner, they built enough trust for George to disclose key information about what had happened.

He stated that Annabel was inside the property, but that she had died. When asked how he knew she had died, he replied “because I killed her”. After this admission, George was arrested on suspicion of murder and taken to hospital.

An earlier argument between the pair had escalated into a brutal attack. George had repeatedly punched Annabel and attempted to strangle her. She was subsequently stabbed 22 times.

In the frenzied aftermath, he started a fire and set off a gas cannister, triggering an explosion that ripped through their home and woke up neighbours along the street.

As the investigation progressed, officers were able to piece together the events leading up to the terrible attack, developing a clear understanding of George’s abusive behaviour and its impact on Annabel.

Detectives identified and examined a large amount of digital evidence, particularly Annabel’s notes that served as a private outlet for her thoughts.

Taken together, these materials painted a vivid picture of George’s temperament, the way he treated Annabel, and the emotional effect this had on her. Serving as compelling evidence, they also revealed that her recent attempts to end the relationship had triggered a significant intensification of George’s anger.

George was also convicted of arson with intent to danger life. He was charged with both offences on Sunday, 22 June 2025 after being arrested 6 days before.

He will be sentenced at the same court on Tuesday, 9 June.