Adam Saunders convicted of killing Kevin Price in frenzied knife attack before stealing from his home
A man has been found guilty of murder following the frenzied stabbing of Kevin Price at a hotel in Blackpool, Lancashire.
Adam Saunders, 51, of no fixed abode, was convicted at Preston Crown Court on Wednesday 21st May 2025 after an eight-day trial. He will be sentenced on Thursday 22nd May.
The court heard how Saunders brutally murdered 36-year-old Kevin Price at The Garfield Hotel in Blackpool in early November 2024. CCTV footage showed Kevin returning to his hotel residence on a Thursday evening from a neighbouring property – the last time he was seen alive.
A concerned friend reported Kevin missing three days later after failing to make contact, which was out of character. Officers from Lancashire Constabulary forced entry into his room and discovered Kevin’s body, launching a murder investigation.
A Home Office post-mortem revealed that Kevin had suffered 56 stab wounds, with fatal injuries inflicted to his neck, chest and back, along with multiple wounds across his body.
In the days following the murder, Saunders returned to the crime scene, stealing personal items and fraudulently using Kevin’s bank card.
He was later arrested and charged with murder following a detailed investigation by Lancashire Police’s Force Major Investigation Team and consultation with the Crown Prosecution Service. A jury unanimously found Saunders guilty.
Detective Chief Inspector Simon Pritchard said:
“First and foremost, my thoughts remain with Kevin’s loved ones at this time. They have had to listen to evidence explaining Kevin’s final days, and how he was killed by someone he thought to be a friend, for the sake of stealing his bank card and property.
“Saunders killed Kevin in a brutal and frenzied attack. His injuries were so severe that they would have been rapidly fatal. I welcome the guilty verdict today and thank the jury for their careful consideration.”
Kevin’s family have been supported by specially trained officers throughout the investigation.
The case has sent shockwaves through the Blackpool community and highlights the importance of local police vigilance, public awareness, and justice for victims of violent crime.
Saunders will be sentenced on Thursday 22nd May 2025 at Preston Crown Court.