Man jailed for life after fatal stabbing of estranged wife in Bootle
47-year-old sentenced to serve a minimum of 29 years
A 47-year-old man has been sentenced to life imprisonment, with a minimum term of 29 years, for fatally stabbing his estranged wife inside a shop in Bootle.
Nimalarajah Mathiyaparanam, from Warrington Road in Widnes, appeared at Liverpool Crown Court on 16th January 2026 after admitting to charges of murder, possession of a knife blade or sharply pointed article in a public place, and breaching his restraining order.
The attack took place at Low Cost Food and Wine on Stanley Road shortly after 5.05pm on 20th June 2025. Mathiyaparanam's estranged wife, Nilani Nimalarajah, was found with multiple stab wounds and transported to hospital, where she tragically died shortly afterward.
Mathiyaparanam was detained at the scene but faced a lengthy recovery after ingesting an unknown substance during the incident. He was charged on 16th July.
Nilani’s family pays tribute
A heartfelt tribute to Nilani was issued by her eldest daughter on behalf of her siblings. “My mum, Nilani, was love in its purest form; she was my strength, my safety, and my home... Her life mattered, her love remains, and she will never be forgotten.”
Police urge victims of domestic abuse to seek help
Detective Chief Inspector Alan Nuttall welcomed the sentence and described the attack as "premeditated and targeted" amid rush-hour traffic with several witnesses present.
He added, “Although nothing can bring Nilani back, I sincerely hope that the sentencing of Mathiyaparanam can bring her family and friends some comfort. Our thoughts remain with them.”
DCI Nuttall urged anyone experiencing domestic abuse to reach out to police or local support services. Domestic abuse can include physical, sexual, psychological, financial abuse, and stalking.
People can contact Merseyside Police through direct messaging on social media or anonymously reach out via Crimestoppers UK. In urgent situations, call 999. Clare's Law also enables individuals to request information about a person’s history of violence or abuse.
More resources and advice on support available for domestic abuse victims can be accessed via Merseyside Police’s website.