A man has confessed to killing a young woman just hours before her 21st birthday celebration. Michael Moore, also known as Michael Doherty, was scheduled to go on trial at Leeds Crown Court for the murder of Courtney Angus in July last year. Apart from the murder charge, the 37-year-old faced allegations of possessing a bladed item, engaging in affray, and threatening individuals with a bladed object in public.
Courtney Angus was discovered dead in a residence on Norfolk Street, Batley, West Yorkshire, shortly before her 21st birthday gathering at Sky Lounge. West Yorkshire Police were informed about Ms. Angus’ demise when responding to an armed robbery report at an Asda store in Dewsbury on July 26, 2025. Subsequently, a man apprehended at the scene disclosed information about a deceased woman at a property on Norfolk Street, leading to the seizure of a knife by the authorities.
Upon arriving at the address in Batley, officers found Ms. Angus, a Dewsbury resident. Doherty, residing on Norfolk Street, admitted to her murder, theft, and three counts of threatening others with a blade. However, he denied charges of possessing a bladed item and affray. The sentencing for the murder will be determined at a later date, with Judge Tom Bayliss KC informing Doherty of the mandatory life imprisonment for murder and the minimum term to be set before parole consideration.
Following Ms. Angus’ tragic death, her family issued a statement expressing their devastation. They described Courtney as a kind-hearted individual who enjoyed music, socializing, and fun, emphasizing the profound loss felt by the entire family.
