Irene Mbugua: Birmingham man admits killing his carer
A man has admitted manslaughter following the death of his carer in Birmingham.
Last updated 26th Feb 2026
A man has pleaded guilty to manslaughter following the death of his carer in Birmingham.
Irene Mbugua, 46, was found seriously injured in David Walsh's home on Markby Road, Winson Green, on 23 June 2025.
She had been assaulted, and suffered serious head and facial injuries.
Walsh, 35, was arrested a short time later and taken to hospital. He was charged with murder, as well as assaulting several police officers at the time of his arrest.
He denied murder but pleaded guilty to manslaughter, as well as four counts of assaulting an emergency worker.
Det Insp Michelle Cordell, who led the investigation, said: “Our thoughts throughout have remained with Irene’s family and loved ones at what has been an unimaginably difficult time for them.
“The circumstances of this case are heartbreaking. Irene’s life was cut short by someone she was providing care for. My investigators have worked tirelessly to understand the circumstances surrounding Irene’s death, and to provide answers for Irene’s family”.
Irene’s family have been kept fully up to date throughout the investigation and supported by specialist officers.
Following her death, they released this tribute to her:
“It’s so sad that you got snatched from us in such a cruel manner. We are so lost without you and we pray for Grace to face each day mum, your beautiful smile and hearty laughter will be missed.
"Please just remind us on how to join the dots because we don’t have a map yet. Rest easy you remain in our hearts forever."
Walsh will be sentenced next month.