What was meant to be a solemn day of remembrance at a Hampshire cemetery ended in a shocking act of violence.
Instead of quietly paying respects to their late son, a long-divorced couple became entangled in a brutal tragedy that has now made its way into the courtroom.
The Attack at the Graveside
On July 24, 2023, 71-year-old Ann Blackwood cycled to Crofton Cemetery in Stubbington to mark what would have been the 36th birthday of her son, Christopher, who died by suicide in 2003.
But as she arrived to lay flowers, she was ambushed by her ex-husband, 68-year-old yachtsman Martin Suter.
Prosecutors told Portsmouth Crown Court that Suter had armed himself with a 12-inch kitchen knife before leaving his £800,000 Lee-on-the-Solent home in his burgundy Mazda sports car.
He drove to the cemetery with flowers in hand and “laid in wait” for his former wife, anticipating she would attend their son’s grave.
A Brutal and Calculated Assault
When Ms. Blackwood reached the grave, Suter stabbed her in the back with the knife.
Moments later, he turned to a pair of scissors—ironically ones she had brought along to trim flowers—and used them to inflict 19 stab wounds to her neck.
The court heard that Ms. Blackwood, described as a kindhearted and active woman by her friends, was “rapidly overwhelmed” and had little chance to defend herself.
A Calm Confession
After the attack, Suter phoned 999 and calmly admitted what he had done.
“I have just murdered someone,” he told the operator.
He went on to specify that it was his ex-wife, adding that he had used both a knife and scissors.
He chillingly justified his actions by blaming her for their son’s death.
Not long after, he also phoned his current wife, Diane, to tell her directly: “I’ve just murdered Ann.”
Police at the Scene
When officers arrived, they found Suter standing beside Ms. Blackwood’s body.
He was arrested on the spot and later taken to the police station.
A postmortem examination confirmed that Ms. Blackwood died from multiple stab wounds, most inflicted with the scissors.
The Courtroom Battle
Though Suter admitted to murder back in May 2024, his case is still undergoing a Newton hearing.
This type of proceeding helps settle disputed details when a defendant pleads guilty but disagrees with parts of the prosecution’s account.
In this case, the hearing is focused on whether Suter had deliberately planned to kill his ex-wife or whether he only intended to cause her serious harm.
Despite the importance of these details, Suter refused to attend the hearing, instead sending a note arguing he had a “moral right” to a full jury trial.
Who Was Ann Blackwood?
Friends and community members described Ms. Blackwood as a loving mother and friend who lived life to the fullest.
In retirement, she enjoyed sailing, tennis, cycling, and music.
She was well-known and much liked in her community, remembered for her warmth and generosity.
Who Is Martin Suter?
Suter lived just a mile away from Ms. Blackwood in a large house overlooking the Solent, an area popular with sailors.
He was a member of the Green Party, once stood in local council elections, and was active at St Faith’s Church in Lee-on-the-Solent.
But beyond his public involvement, darker chapters of his past had already surfaced.
Last year, he was convicted in Manchester for historic abuse involving a young girl under 14.
A Community Left Reeling
The case has left friends, neighbors, and the sailing community stunned.
A woman known for her compassion and energy lost her life in a place meant for quiet remembrance.
Now, as the hearing continues, the court must determine the level of intent behind Suter’s deadly actions.
Support for Those in Need
This devastating case serves as a reminder of the lasting pain left by loss, unresolved anger, and violence.
For anyone struggling, confidential support is available through Samaritans at 116 123 or online at samaritans.org, as well as at thecalmzone.net/get-support.