Man pleads guilty to murder after body of wife is found in freezer at their home.

Wednesday, October 7, 2026 -A man has pleaded guilty to murd£ring his wife after her body was found in a freezer at their home. 

David Barraclough, 45, was due to go on trial today, October 6, at Leeds Crown Court to face charges for murd£ring Carolann Barraclough, 37. 

The mother-of-three's body was found inside a freezer at the couple's home in Wakefield, West Yorkshire, on March 5 after officers responded to a concern for safety. 

Barraclough had initially pleaded not guilty but changed his plea to guilty today. 

A sentencing date is due to be set tomorrow, October 7. 

His Honour Judge Stubbs told Barraclough: "I'll see you again tomorrow morning, but it is unlikely I will sentence you tomorrow morning. We will go through any basis and set a date." 

Ms Barraclough's family have also recently endured the loss of her father, Dave Rowley, last month, YorkshireLive reports.

In a statement, the heartbroken family said: "After the unimaginable loss of Carolann seven months ago, our family is again facing turmoil, with the devastating loss of Carolann's dad Dave. 

"After losing Caz [Carolann], the family has been under immense stress whilst waiting for the trial, and, already suffering from health problems, Dave passed away on September 17 before seeing justice." 

The description of a fundraiser launched to cover "outstanding funeral costs" read: "With the heaviest of hearts, we are asking for your help during an incredibly difficult and heartbreaking time. This family has been through more heartbreak than anyone should ever have to face. 

"Earlier this year, they tragically lost their beloved daughter, sister and mum, Carolann, who was brutally taken from them. Her family are still trying to come to terms with that loss. Sadly, they have now been faced with another devastating loss. 

"Carolann’s dad, a much-loved husband, father and grandfather, passed away suddenly from a heart attack. 

"He had been seen at hospital earlier that day and was sent home, but within hours his family had to rush him back to hospital, where he sadly passed away."