Pensioner, 92, admits killing his 87-year-old wife in 'failed suicide pact'

Published: 13:24 EDT, 1 October 2026 | Updated: 13:26 EDT, 1 October 2026 A 92-year-old man has admitted to killing his 87-year-old wife in a suspected failed suicide pact - making him one of Britain's oldest killers. Laurence Billam suffocated his wife Shirley with a pillow at their Devon apartment before taking an overdose of prescribed medication.Police and paramedics rushed to the couple's sheltered accommodation on Millbrook Lane, Exeter, at 12.40pm on Sunday, April 19. Mrs Billam, a retired shop owner, was pronounced dead at the scene.Police launched an investigation, leading to the arrest of her husband.On Thursday, the white-haired pensioner denied murdering his wife but admitted manslaughter due to diminished responsibility.The Crown previously told Exeter Magistrates' Court the couple had allegedly decided to die by suicide as Billam did not want to leave his wife with responsibilities.He left notes explaining his actions but family members raised concerns for their welfare and police went to their home. Laurence Billam, 92, suffocated his wife 87-year-old wife Shirley (pictured) with a pillow at their Devon apartment before taking an overdose of prescribed medication The white-haired pensioner was wearing a beige t-shirt when he appeared over a video link from Exeter Prison (pictured) to enter his guilty plea on ThursdayMrs Billam was found to have been smothered. Her husband was rushed to hospital after taking an overdose of prescribed medication.Billam was wearing a beige t-shirt when he appeared over a video link from Exeter Prison to enter his guilty plea on Thursday. The pensioner, who is hard of hearing, was heard saying 'sorry' when asked his name but spoke clearly when answering questions.Members of the Billam family were in court to hear the case.Judge James Patrick, who previously called it a 'tragic' case, said it was a 'very difficult day for them'. The court heard three psychiatric reports had been prepared and that the unlawful killing plea was accepted. No pre-sentence report has been prepared.Defence barrister Lee Bremridge said social care was required to make an urgent assessment about a possible placement being offered.Judge Patrick said: 'It is a rather unusual case and Social Services need to get involved sooner rather than later.'He told Billam to cooperate with the reports, who replied that he understood.Prosecutor Ray Tully said the plea was acceptable to the Crown and the case was adjourned for sentencing to November 20.