The trial of a woman accused of murdering 34-year-old Liam Collier in Haydock has been postponed until 2026. Kayleigh Smart, 39, was scheduled to face a jury at Liverpool Crown Court this month, but the date has been vacated, with a new hearing set for January.
Mr. Collier died from stab wounds following an incident at a flat on Sherlock Avenue on May 2. The case will now proceed with a further hearing early next year, though a new trial date has not yet been confirmed.
Key Takeaways
- The murder trial of Kayleigh Smart, originally set for October 27, has been delayed.
- Smart is accused of the murder of Liam Collier, 34, who was stabbed in Haydock on May 2.
- A new hearing is scheduled for January 30, 2026, at Liverpool Crown Court.
- Merseyside Police have described the incident as isolated and are not seeking other suspects.
Court Proceedings Adjourned
Kayleigh Smart, 39, was expected to stand trial at Liverpool Crown Court on October 27. The trial was anticipated to last approximately one week. However, during a hearing on Thursday, Judge Simon Medland KC confirmed that this date would be vacated.
The court has not yet scheduled a new date for the jury trial to commence. Instead, a further hearing has been arranged for January 30, 2026. Smart, who is of no fixed address but is understood to be from the Billinge area, remains charged with murder.
Details of the May Incident
The case relates to an incident that occurred on the evening of Friday, May 2. At around 10:30 pm, Merseyside Police were called to a flat on Sherlock Avenue in Haydock following reports that a man had been stabbed.
Emergency services attended the scene, but Liam Collier, aged 34, died as a result of his injuries. Following an investigation, Kayleigh Smart was arrested and subsequently charged with his murder.
Timeline of Events
- May 2 (approx. 10:30 pm): Police receive reports of a stabbing at a flat on Sherlock Avenue, Haydock.
- Post-Incident: Liam Collier, 34, is pronounced dead from his injuries.
- May (following days): Kayleigh Smart, 39, is charged with murder.
- October 5: A judge at Liverpool Crown Court vacates the original trial date of October 27.
- January 30, 2026: A new court hearing is scheduled to take place.
Police and Family Statements
Following the incident in May, Merseyside Police sought to reassure the local community. Detective Chief Inspector Steve Ball confirmed that specialist officers were supporting Mr. Collier's family.
"This was an isolated incident, and we are not looking for anyone else in connection with his tragic death," Detective Chief Inspector Ball stated at the time.
Mr. Collier's family also released a heartfelt tribute. In a statement, they said: "Liam, you were taken far too soon. You will be loved and missed always and forever. From all your family."
Eyewitness Accounts from the Scene
In the aftermath of the stabbing, local residents described a significant emergency services presence. A police cordon remained in place on Sherlock Avenue throughout the weekend as forensic investigations were carried out.
One neighbour reported seeing a large number of police vehicles and ambulances. "I could see the doctors trying to save him. It was going on for about an hour," the resident recalled, noting that many neighbours were outside until the early hours of the morning.
Another resident living on nearby Oak Avenue told reporters they heard shouting on the evening of the incident, which was followed by the sound of sirens. A white forensic tent was later seen in the front garden of the apartment block where the incident occurred.
The legal proceedings will now continue in the new year, with the January hearing expected to provide further direction on when a full trial will take place.