EMOTIONAL tributes have been paid to a “lovely” woman who was stabbed to death in an attack at home.
Claire Butler, 48, was fatally stabbed inside a property on West Hoe Road, in Plymouth, late last night.
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Dozens of armed officers were dispatched to the scene as around 20 cop cars arrived at 8.55pm and found Claire seriously injured in the street.
The lecturer in adult nursing at Plymouth University was rushed to hospital but tragically pronounced dead a short while later.
Police named Paul Anthony Butler, 53, as wanted in connection with the incident and launched an urgent manhunt.
He is now in police custody having been arrested in Liskeard, Cornwall, around 20 miles from Plymouth, on suspicion of murder.
A local resident told the MailOnline: “It’s a huge shock, we only chatted to her a couple of days ago.”
Tributes have since poured in for Claire, one person shared: “Claire was my personal tutor in university and genuinely helped me through some truly difficult times.
“Always believed in me, even when I didn’t believe in myself. She was so proud when I finally graduated, and I told her that day that I could have never done it without her and I genuinely meant that.
“I cannot believe it. She was truly one of the most kind-hearted souls you’d ever meet and had so, so much going for her.
“She was an amazing tutor, phenomenal lecturer, and a phenomenal nurse. I’m so sorry to her family and those who loved her. Absolutely devastating.”
Another said: “Claire was my personal tutor at uni and helped me through some really tough times.
“She was a beautiful, kind, amazing woman. What a waste of a life. Sending love to her family and friends. RIP angel.”
A third added: “I am deeply saddened to hear about Claire’s passing. She was such a sweet soul, and I had the privilege of being taught by her. Claire was not only a brilliant lecturer but also an inspiring presence.
“This news is truly heartbreaking. My thoughts and prayers are with her family and loved ones during this difficult time.”
“Rest in peace Claire! You were an amazing lecturer, so kind and a beacon of sunshine. I’m so so sorry,” shared someone else.
Others described Claire as “bubbly” and “inspirational” while helping her students through university.
The force will now make a mandatory referral to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) because of previous contact with Claire.
A spokesperson said: “Our thoughts are with her family at this time who we are continuing to support.
“Officers would like to thank the local community for their assistance and their patience while our enquiries continue into this incident.”
DCI David Pebworth previously said: “Cordons will likely remain in place for the rest of the day and police units will remain in the area.
“I wish to make the public aware we are looking to locate a man in relation to this incident whose identity is known, and enquiries are ongoing to find him.
“At this time, I would like to reassure the community and further afield in Plymouth that there is no suggestion that there is a wider risk to members of the public.
“There will be a heightened police presence and visibility in the coming days in the area as enquiries are ongoing.
“We will of course update the public once we have further information.”
Anyone who witnessed the incident or has any information to assist police is asked to contact police online or by telephone on 101, quoting log number 756 of 22/01/25
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