The family of Fiona Holm, who has been missing for a year, described her as “funny and caring” but said she “trusted too much.” Fiona’s sister, Elise Skillen, and other family members gave emotional testimony at the trial of Carl Cooper, 66, who is accused of murdering 48-year-old Fiona and 41-year-old Naomi Hunte.
The Disappearance and Accusations
Fiona Holm was last seen on the evening of June 20, 2023. Carl Cooper, who is currently on trial, is accused of murdering Fiona as well as Naomi Hunte, who was found stabbed to death in her Woolwich flat in February 2022.
Family Testimonies
On Thursday, Fiona’s family members provided poignant insights into her life and character.
Elise Skillen, Fiona’s Sister
Elise described her sister as her “best sister,” saying, “She’s funny, caring… just Fiona. She trusted too much.” She highlighted Fiona’s struggles with autism and alcohol dependency, noting that Fiona had managed to stop drinking for a period of three and a half years without any external help.
“She did it with no help, she did it on her own,” Elise said. However, by mid-2023, Fiona had resumed drinking.
Helena Holm, Another Sister
Helena Holm shared fond memories of Fiona’s humour and kindness, particularly her love for her children. “She is funny, she comes out with the most outrageous statements,” Helena said. She acknowledged Fiona’s occasional volatility when she had been drinking but emphasized her sister’s kind nature.
Disturbing Incident After Fiona’s Disappearance
Family members recounted a disturbing incident on July 11, after Fiona had gone missing. They discovered Cooper allegedly selling Fiona’s clothes to a market trader. Upon arriving at Cooper’s address, they saw a market trader’s van outside. The trader informed them that he had purchased some clothing from Cooper.
Elise described looking in the back of the van and recognizing two coats as Fiona’s. “They even smelt like Fiona,” she said. “That made me sick because I thought what’s he doing selling my sister’s clothes.”
Arrest and Trial
Following this incident, Cooper reported to the police that three of Fiona’s family members were threatening him. Subsequently, Cooper was arrested and later charged with the murders of both Fiona and Naomi.
Cooper denies both charges of murder, and the trial continues.
Ongoing Trial
The trial of Carl Cooper is ongoing, with the court hearing further evidence and testimonies. The case has drawn significant attention, highlighting the emotional toll on Fiona’s family and their quest for justice.
How to Help
Anyone with information about Fiona Holm’s disappearance or the case can contact local authorities. The family and law enforcement continue to seek answers and justice for Fiona and Naomi.
