In a dramatic court case, a woman allegedly stabbed her estranged spouse following his revelation that their pet dogs had been euthanized. Claire Bridger, 64, is standing trial for the attempted murder of Keith Bridger, her husband of 40 years, after the relationship came to an end. The incident unfolded when Claire visited Keith at his residence in Norfolk and learned about the fate of their rescue dogs.
Despite ongoing mediation sessions between the couple, Keith sustained severe injuries from the stabbing. Claire has refuted the charge of attempted murder but acknowledged committing an offense of wounding with intent. Testimonies at Norwich Crown Court revealed the breakdown of their marriage, leading Keith to relocate from their shared home in Taverham, Norfolk.
Reportedly, Claire assaulted her husband upon discovering that their dogs had been put to sleep. The couple had taken in two rescue dogs, known for their noisy and aggressive behavior, which Keith struggled to accommodate post-separation. Feeling compelled to euthanize the dogs due to housing constraints, Keith’s decision triggered an emotional outburst from Claire when she visited him on July 17, 2020.
In a heated exchange, Claire reacted vehemently to the news, accusing Keith of killing their beloved pets. Subsequently, she attacked him with a knife, inflicting wounds to his chest and abdomen. Keith managed to seek help as neighbors intervened to restrain Claire and called emergency services. The altercation led to a frantic 999 call where Claire could be heard berating Keith while wielding a knife.
Following the incident, Keith received urgent medical attention for his life-threatening injuries. Upon police arrival, Claire expressed remorse, citing the dog’s fate as a triggering factor for her actions. Despite her emotional response during court proceedings, Claire has denied any intent to commit murder and admitted to causing injury with intent. The trial is ongoing as the jury deliberates the case.