A student who sparked a nationwide manhunt after stabbing a grandmother to death has admitted her murder.
Alexander Carr attacked mum-of-three Michelle Hanson, 48, at her flat in Brady Street, Sunderland, late last year.
The 33-year-old, a student at the University of Sunderland at the time, was named the prime suspect as he was the last person to be seen with her on December 1.
After finding discarded knives and forensic evidence linked to Carr, detectives released photos and CCTV of him alongside a £10,000 reward for information leading to his arrest.
He was tracked down 18 days later in Islington, north London, armed with a hunting knife, having camped out in a tent pitched on an embankment near Upper Holloway station.
Carr appeared via video link at Newcastle Crown Court on Friday where he pleaded guilty to murder.
At the brief hearing, it was said that Carr suffered personality disorders at the time of the killing.
Judge Paul Sloan KC told Carr only a life sentence was possible, but he will set the minimum term the defendant must serve behind bars on June 16.
Outside court, senior investigating officer, detective chief inspector Graeme Barr said: ‘Firstly I would like to praise the bravery and strength shown by Michelle’s family throughout these proceedings.
‘Not only have they had to come to terms with the tragic loss of their mam and grandmother, but they also played a role in helping us to locate Carr, who was desperately trying to evade arrest. His despicable actions speak volumes.
‘Carr murdered Michelle and then fled down south and went into hiding so he could not be held accountable.
‘That arrogance and lack of remorse has been difficult for Michelle’s family to come to terms with, and we are thankful he is now behind bars, facing a life sentence for his actions.
‘We know nothing can bring Michelle back but we hope today can serve as the first step towards the closure her family deserve.
‘No one should have to lose a loved one in such horrific circumstances and as a Force, we are committed to tackling all types of violence, and ensuring perpetrators are brought to justice.’
While Carr was on the run, Michelle’s daughter Shannon Brown paid tribute to her mum and appealed for the public’s help in tracing her killer.
Shannon said: ‘As a family, we are all devastated by what has happened. My mam was a caring, kind and loving person.
‘She would never hurt anyone, even if someone did something to hurt her, she would forgive them because she always saw the good in people.
‘She always got on with things and never gave up. It’s heart-breaking for us as a family to know we will never see her again.’
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