Ex international hockey player guilty of murdering wife in Droitwich
Joanne Samak, 49, died after she was found with multiple stab wounds at an address in Droitwich in July last year
Last updated 29th Oct 2025
An ex international hockey player has been found guilty of murdering his wife in Worcestershire.
49-year-old Joanne Samak died after she was found with multiple stab wounds at an address in Droitwich the early hours on the 1 July last year.
Her Husband, Mohamed Samak denied her murder, but today (October 29) after a retrial at Worcester Crown Court, he was found guilty of murder by a jury.
Samak claimed his wife had stabbed herself and told the court he had hidden blood stained items of clothing in the loft because he was afraid he would be blamed for her death.
A jury in the first trial, held earlier this year, failed to reach a verdict.
Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Inspector Mark Walters said: “Whilst I am pleased that Mohamed Samak will face a substantial number of years in prison following today’s guilty verdict, the loss of Joanne will continue to be felt deeply by her family and friends, and our thoughts remain with them.
“I would particularly like to pay tribute to Joannes family who, despite the continuous lies by the defendant regarding the events leading to her death, have remained dignified and courageous throughout”.
In a statement Joannes family said: “Jo was a beautiful, thoughtful person. She was loyal, kind and caring to everyone that touched her life. She was deeply loved by us, her family and her many, many friends.
“Most importantly, she was an amazing mummy. Her loss has had a devastating impact on everyone who knew and loved her, and we will never come to terms with losing her in such a cruel and senseless way.
“Jo’s zest for life was infectious. She was generous, creative and full of fun, with a wonderful sense of style and a passion for interior design, fashion, art and nature.
“Jo had so much more life to live, and we will miss her and love her forever”.
Samak will be sentenced at Worcester Crown Court on Friday (October 31).