Mark Donovan, 39, convicted of murdering Elise Mason, 37, at his home. He confessed after inflicting 70 injuries.
Police investigated thoroughly and Donovan was convicted at Chelmsford Crown Court. The jury only deliberated for three hours on February 28, 2025.
Donovan walked into a police station in Ilford the day after the murder. He ate Chinese food and confessed, telling officers he did “the worst thing.” His behavior worried police, so the Metropolitan Police contacted Essex Police.
Essex Police went to Donovan’s house where they found Elise not breathing. She had many injuries, including head wounds and strangulation signs.
A post-mortem examination showed wounds on her hands. These wounds were from her trying to defend herself.
Police investigated Donovan’s actions after the attack. The Serious Crime Directorate led this investigation. CCTV showed Elise arriving at Donovan’s house around 4:09 PM on April 25.
By 6:30 PM, Donovan left and went to a pub nearby. He hid her phone in the toilets and then took a taxi.
Donovan visited family, and also attempted to visit a massage parlor in Chelmsford. It was closed, so he found another in Romford. On April 26, early in the morning, he turned himself in.
Investigators learned Donovan and Elise were once married, but ended things in 2022. However, Donovan kept contacting her, sending messages to manipulate her and wanting her to get back together.
Donovan denied murder. He stood trial despite the strong evidence against him, but the jury did not believe him and found him guilty quickly.
His sentencing is on March 5 at Chelmsford Crown Court. Detective Inspector James Holmes spoke and called Donovan dangerous and selfish.
He said Donovan tried to blame Elise, telling lies to officers and doctors. Holmes hoped the verdict helps the family find closure and move forward.