Christchurch cold case: Police charge two with murder of Angela Blackmoore

Angela was 21 when she died after being viciously assaulted at her home in Wainoni on 17 August 1995.

A man and woman have been charged with the brutal murder of Angela Maree Blackmoore, who was stabbed to death 24 years ago.

Blackmoore's partner at the time Laurie Anderson says it's the breakthrough he's been waiting for.

"It's exciting, we have been in a buzz all night. I can't wait to get to court and look them in the eye," Anderson said.

Police contacted Anderson at 8.30pm last night to inform him that a 45-year-old man and 47-year-old woman had been charged with murdering Blackmoore.

Police said the pair were due to appear at Christchurch District Court this morning.

"We don't who [they] are yet but we will when we get to court this morning," Anderson said.

Blackmoore was 21 years old and 10 weeks' pregnant when she died after being viciously assaulted at her home in Wainoni on August 17, 1995. Her 2-year-old son was sleeping in his bedroom at the time of her death.

Laurie Anderson and his partner Angela Blackmoore, who was murdered in 1995 just a week after the photo was taken. Photo / Kurt Bayer

Anderson said Blackmoore's son Dillon, who was now 26, was the first person he called after being contacted by police.

"I've stayed involved in his life. He was the first person I went and informed after I got the information."

Time has done little to ease Anderson's pain and suffering at losing the woman he loved.

"I remember her as happy, bubbly, fun type person. She was just joyful and would find the good in anything.

"That's what I loved about her."

He said one of his fondest memories was sitting in the lounge with the music on and her dancing in front him.

"She had this sparkle in her eyes, one of the magic type persons who could find enjoyment out of misery."

In May this year, a $100,000 reward was offered for information on the case.

When the reward was announced, Anderson told the Herald he was confident the killer would be flushed out.

He still lives in the house where his partner died.

Laurie Anderson holds a photo of him and his partner Angela Blackmoore, who was murdered in 1995 just a week after the photo was taken. Photo / Kurt Bayer

"It's still raw, you just learn to live with it. It's like a disability – say you lost your arm – you learn to live with your loss."

Detective Sergeant Todd Hamilton said the investigation into Blackmoore's death remained ongoing and detectives were committed to ensuring all those involved were held to account.

"Our thoughts are with Angela's family at they continue to mourn her tragic death.

"Police would like to thank members of the public for information provided following a renewed appeal in May 2019.

"As the matter is now before the court, police is unable to provide further comment," Hamilton said.