By Lucy Caulkett–
A cold blooded murderer killed his friend then walked to his neighbour’s home covered in blood, and called his mother to inform her “he’s dead”.
Perry Coulson of Lesney Gardens, Rochford(pictured) was convicted by a jury at Basildon Crown Court of murdering his friend ,Dominic Clark-Ellingford following a seven-day trial.
Coulson and Elingford both grew up in London and had known each other for around 20 years, becoming much closer in recent years.
The stabbing took place in November 25 last year following at an address in Lesney Gardens in Rochford at around 8.30am. The victim, 32-year-old Dominic Clark-Ellingford was sadly pronounced dead at the scene.
Cops found Coulson outside the front of his property sitting in a car.
Shocked jurors heard Coulson walked to his neighbour’s house with blood on his clothing and asked to use their phone. The cold hearted murderer then called the mother of the victim to say that he and Dominic had been in a fight adding, “He is dead, I’m sorry.”
The trial also heard how Coulson had purchased knives in the past and had thrown the one he used to kill his friend into a bush. Throughout the trial, Coulson claimed his actions were self-defence, but the jury rejected this.
Dominic Clark-Ellingford was tragically murdered in Rochford Image: Essex Police)
Coulson was charged with murder two days later and was convicted today. Detective Chief Inspector Julie Gowen who led the case said: “This was a horrendous assault, where a father of two lost his life.
“Our Serious Crime Directorate have remained committed to this investigation, dedicating hundreds of hours of work to carry out enquiries and secure justice for Dominic’s family. I hope that today’s conviction provides them with a form of closure so they can move forward as a family.”
Paying tribute to Mr Clark-Ellingford, his family of the dad of two said: “Dominic was a much loved son, brother, uncle, cousin, friend and father. He was a doting father to his two young children. They adored their time together enjoying adventurous days out, playing board games, listening to music & singing. There was nothing he wouldn’t do for them.
“Dominic was a loving son to me and his father and he shared our sense of humour. We will miss the sound of his infectious laugh so much. He was funny and kind to all that knew him. Dominic was a music lover and he co-wrote a tribute song to a close friend who passed away.
“Dominic had the chance of a promising future in counselling and therapy, dealing with people struggling with addiction. He had gained a certificate in this field and was working towards his goals in life which has now been taken from him. He was highly thought of and losing him has not just affected our family but his friends, workmates and everyone who was lucky enough to know him. His loss has left a massive void which will never be filled.
“His children are utterly devastated and now face a future without their daddy in their lives. The family would like to thank all at Essex Police, from the first responders to the team of detectives that worked to secure a conviction and deliver justice for Dominic”.
Associates of Coulson told The Eye Of Media.Com that the brute killer had suffered from anger issues for a long time, but it was hoped he was dealing with those issues
He will be sentenced on August 27 at Basildon Crown Court.