A mum whose daughters were in the same pub where Elle Edwards was shot dead said she 'counts her blessings' after sending them a text.
Elle was enjoying a night out with friends and her sister on Christmas Eve, when she was shot in the head in the Lighthouse pub, in Wallasey Village. The 26-year-old beautician was not believed to have been the intended target of the horrific shooting.
People woke up on Christmas Day to the tragic news of Elle's death, with many having visited the Lighthouse that night to celebrate the festive season with friends and family. One woman - named only as Ellen - told the Liverpool Echo how her daughters were among those who spent Christmas Eve in the pub.
She said she decided to send them a text asking them when they were coming home. Ellen, 58, said: "I wouldn't normally chase my daughters. It was only because it was Christmas and you know if you get home and you've had too much to drink Christmas day is a write off.
"I messaged and said 'what time are you coming home? Big day tomorrow.' I dread to think what would have happened if I hadn't."
Ellen said she 'counts her blessings' that her daughters returned home when they did, with one walking through the door at 11.30pm - around 20 minutes before the shooting. She added: "I'm fortunate I've got my girls home - that poor family.
"I heard the gunshots but I didn't know they were gunshots. It made me look at the time - it was ten to 12.
"I thought it's fireworks and then I heard all the sirens and thought something has gone on. It's one of those things you don't expect to happen in this area - we don't have big problems. It's just so sad to be honest."
Three people have been arrested in connection with Elle Edwards' murder. A 30-year-old man from Tranmere was arrested on suspicion of murder and attempted murder.
A 19-year-old woman from Rock Ferry has also been arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to murder. A 31-year-old man from Tranmere has been arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to murder.
All three suspects remain in custody for questioning. Four men were also injured in the shooting.
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