An elderly man, aged 81 and suffering from terminal cancer, attempted to rob a 95-year-old woman as a desperate measure to secure funds for his own funeral expenses. Edwin Morrison, a retired pharmacy courier, attacked the woman in her residence in Little Hulton, Salford, Greater Manchester on January 27. He forcibly restrained her with cable ties while demanding money, causing her distress and fear.

The robbery was thwarted by the unexpected arrival of the woman’s mobile hairdresser at the scene. Morrison, who had encountered the victim during his previous job delivering medication, was apprehended the following day at his residence in Worsley after his car was tracked by the authorities. Prior to the incident, he had expressed suicidal thoughts but was apprehensive about imposing financial burdens on his family for his funeral arrangements.

Following his arrest, Morrison engaged in a hunger strike while in custody, which has now ceased. He is also declining medication for his heart condition. During January, Morrison initiated a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds for his funeral costs due to his cancer diagnosis. On the day of the incident, he was observed loitering near the victim’s residence before approaching her under false pretenses and subsequently attempting the robbery.

The victim, deeply traumatized by the attack, expressed how the ordeal has severely impacted her sense of security and well-being. Morrison pleaded guilty to the attempted robbery charge. His defense counsel highlighted his previous contributions as a caring partner and family figure, attributing his recent actions to a series of personal setbacks, including health issues and emotional distress.

The sentencing for Morrison has been postponed to April 15 to allow for a comprehensive pre-sentence evaluation and additional medical assessments.