A 40-year-old man has admitted the murder of a 23-year-old woman who was a former colleague and with whom he had a brief relationship.
Stephanie Irons was found dead after emergency services were called to an address on Westdale Lane West, Mapperley, on 21 October 2025.
At a brief hearing at Nottingham Crown Court on Monday, 26 January, Adedapo Adegbola, of Woodborough Road, Mapperley, pleaded guilty to a single charge of murder. He is due to be sentenced on 5 February.
The court heard that Adegbola, who relocated to the UK in 2022, fatally wounded Miss Irons after visiting her home following the end of their short relationship. Judge Nirmal Shant KC told the defendant that he faces a mandatory life sentence, with the court to determine the minimum term.
Members of Miss Irons’ family were present in court, while prosecutors confirmed that victim impact statements are being prepared ahead of sentencing.
Police said concerns were raised on the evening of the attack after Miss Irons’ colleagues received a series of alarming messages, prompting officers to attend her address.
Following the killing, Adegbola fled the scene, leaving behind blood-stained trainers and a jumper on streets in Mapperley and Carlton. Police said he then travelled through Mansfield, Worksop and Sheffield before reaching Hull. On 22 October, he returned to Nottingham and handed himself in, but later gave no comment during police interviews.
Detective Inspector Stuart Barson described the case as “tragic”, saying:
“This is a tragic case in which a caring and compassionate young woman was taken away in horrific circumstances.
“Following the attack on Miss Irons, Adegbola made no attempt to call for an ambulance and was concerned only with getting away from the scene and attempting to dispose of vital evidence.
“I want to thank Miss Irons’ family for the incredible strength they have shown throughout this process, and I hope this outcome helps them begin to come to terms with such a dreadful loss.”
Miss Irons was described by police as a caring and compassionate young woman whose death has left her family, friends and colleagues devastated.
