Kornelijus Bracas jailed for murdering sister and setting fires at Portadown home

In his statement he said he thinks about Ms Nazarova every day.

Both Ms Nazarova and her brother are originally from Lithuania.

The judge said there were several aggravating factors in the case including the fact Bracas blocked his niece from escaping her room and set fire to the deceased while she was still alive.

The judge also pointed out he had tried to burn the house down and destroy the crime scene.

She also spoke about the fact this was a domestic violence case and Bracas’s misogynistic attitude towards women was evidenced by his claim his sister has treated him like “garbage” by asking him to do chores.

The judge said domestic violence is a scourge on society in Northern Ireland.

Detective Inspector Sean Armstrong said violence against women and girls “is not, and never has been, acceptable” and that Bracas has been held to account after tearing a loving family apart.

He added: “The memories of that disturbing scene will be etched in my memory forever, and I’d like to acknowledge the efforts and support of my colleagues who also attended.”

He thanked the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service whose “actions and bravery” saved a young girl’s life.