EMOTIONAL tributes have been paid to a “lovely” uni lecturer who was stabbed to death in an attack at home.
Claire Butler, 48, was fatally stabbed inside a property on West Hoe Road, in Plymouth, late on Wednesday night.
Claire Butler died in hospital after being fatally stabbed on Wednesday night
Paul Anthony Butler, 53, has been arrested on suspicion of murder
Wayne PerryThe moment armed cops went into the apartment[/caption]
Dozens of armed officers were dispatched to the scene as around 20 cop cars arrived at 8.55pm and found Claire seriously injured in the street.
The lecturer in adult nursing at Plymouth University was rushed to hospital but tragically pronounced dead a short while later.
Police named Paul Anthony Butler, 53, as wanted in connection with the incident and launched an urgent manhunt.
He is now in police custody having been arrested in Liskeard, Cornwall, around 20 miles from Plymouth, on suspicion of murder.
A local told the MailOnline: “It’s a huge shock, we only chatted to her a couple of days ago.”
They recalled armed police raiding her home at around 10pm, as residents were told to stay indoors.
The witness claimed Claire had moved into the property “last week”.
Tributes have since poured in for Claire, one person shared: “Claire was my personal tutor in university and genuinely helped me through some truly difficult times.
“Always believed in me, even when I didn’t believe in myself. She was so proud when I finally graduated, and I told her that day that I could have never done it without her and I genuinely meant that.
“I cannot believe it. She was truly one of the most kind-hearted souls you’d ever meet and had so, so much going for her.
“She was an amazing tutor, phenomenal lecturer, and a phenomenal nurse. I’m so sorry to her family and those who loved her. Absolutely devastating.”
Another said: “Claire was my personal tutor at uni and helped me through some really tough times.
“She was a beautiful, kind, amazing woman. What a waste of a life. Sending love to her family and friends. RIP angel.”
A third added: “I am deeply saddened to hear about Claire’s passing. She was such a sweet soul, and I had the privilege of being taught by her. Claire was not only a brilliant lecturer but also an inspiring presence.
“This news is truly heartbreaking. My thoughts and prayers are with her family and loved ones during this difficult time.”
“Rest in peace Claire! You were an amazing lecturer, so kind and a beacon of sunshine. I’m so so sorry,” shared someone else.
Others described Claire as “bubbly” and “inspirational” while helping her students through university.
The force will now make a mandatory referral to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) because of previous contact with Claire.
A spokesperson said: “Our thoughts are with her family at this time who we are continuing to support.
“Officers would like to thank the local community for their assistance and their patience while our enquiries continue into this incident.”
Anyone who witnessed the incident or has any information to assist police is asked to contact police online or by telephone on 101, quoting log number 756 of 22/01/25
Wayne PerryForensic cops at the scene in Plymouth[/caption]
UKNIPThe force will make a mandatory referral to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC)[/caption]
Wayne PerryDozens of officers were called to the scene[/caption] Published: [#item_custom_pubDate]
