'Face of a killer': Photo of man accused of killing Olivia Pratt-Korbel released as he appears in court
DOVECOT, LIVERPOOL: The photo of the man who allegedly killed Olivia Pratt-Korbel has been revealed as he appeared before court for the first time. Thomas Cashman has been accused of fatally shooting Pratt-Korbel on August 22. As per reports, the actual target was a 35-year-old convicted burglar, Joseph Nee, who ran inside the child’s house before she was shot.
The 34-year-old suspect from Grenadier Drive, West Derby, Liverpool, was reportedly taken to Liverpool Magistrates Court on Monday, October 3 after being charged with the death of Olivia as well as the attempted murder of Nee and Olivia's mother, Cheryl. Cashman also faces charges related to possession of firearms with intent to endanger life.
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As per reports, Cashman’s initial court appearance only saw him confirming his name and address while donning a light blue T-shirt and jeans. However, he was presented before Liverpool Crown Court later in the day. Another suspect, Paul Russell of Knowsley, was also taken to Liverpool Magistrates Court after being charged with helping an offender. The 41-year-old will apparently be taken to Liverpool Crown Court on October 31.
Earlier, Merseyside police had released a statement in connection with the case. Mark Kameen, Detective Chief Superintendent and Head of Investigations, said, “I continue to urge anyone who has information that can help our investigation into Olivia’s tragic murder to please come forward so we can bring those responsible to justice. A number of people have been arrested in respect of this investigation. However, we still need the public’s help in ensuring that we can a build a strong evidential picture so justice is served for Olivia and her family." Kameen added, "With this, I appeal for those who may have information, no matter how small, that could continue to help our inquiries to contact us directly or anonymously and we will do the rest.”
A Merseyside Police spokesperson added, “The investigation into Olivia's murder is ongoing, and we continue to appeal for people with information to come forward to help us catch the people responsible. Anyone with information is asked to DM @MerPolCC or contact @CrimestoppersUK on 0800 555 111. If you have any CCTV/dashcam/smart doorbell footage that could help our inquiries they can be downloaded on the dedicated public portal for Olivia's murder, which will go straight through to the investigation team.”
Meanwhile, on September 15, Pratt-Korbel was laid to rest. According to Wales Online, Pratt-Korbel's devastated mother said on the emotional day, “She was so small yet even as a newborn she had her own mind. Although she loved sparkle and glitz she would never go overboard and she was very particular, even down to her socks. Olivia was very chatty and bubbly and would talk for England, to the point we thought she had Duracell batteries inside her somewhere.”
“Olivia loved to sing and dance. She’d always be singing along to songs she enjoyed, especially when we would be driving in the car and she would always be in charge of the CD player. Olivia knew exactly how to wrap people around her little finger to get what she wanted, especially her brother Ryan and sister Chloe. She would often give them a cheeky smile and they would give in instantly. Liv touched so many people’s hearts and was loved and adored by everyone. She will never be forgotten,” a devastated Cheryl added.