Man appears in court charged with murder of Olivia Pratt-Korbel, 9, who was gunned down at home
A MAN has appeared in court charged with murdering Olivia Pratt-Korbel after she was shot dead at her family home.
Thomas Cashman, 34, allegedly killed the nine-year-old, who was caught in the crossfire during the horror in Liverpool on August 22.
He is also charged with the attempted murder of convicted burglar Joseph Nee, who was chased by a gunman into Olivia’s home.
Cashman is further accused of attempting to murder Olivia’s mum Cheryl after she was shot in the wrist and two counts of possession of a firearms with intent to endanger life.
He appeared at Liverpool Crown Court via video link from HMP Manchester today.
Cashman, who denies the offences, could be seen taking notes during the hearing.
Olivia’s parents and other family members also attended the hearing, which mainly dealt with administrative matters.
Cashman was remanded into custody ahead of a trial on March 6 at Manchester Crown Court.
The bloodbath unfolded when intended target Nee rushed into Olivia’s home to escape a gunman.
Mum Cheryl appeared to have opened the front door to see what the commotion was when the 35-year-old forced his way inside.
The shooter then followed and began peppering the home with bullets – hitting Cheryl first then Olivia, who was standing behind her mum.
Tragically, Olivia was declared dead shortly after, while her mum was treated for a gunshot wound to the wrist.
Intended target Nee was treated for multiple wounds to his upper body and has since been recalled to jail for breaching the terms of his release.
Olivia’s family previously paid tribute to the “unique, chatty, nosey little girl who broke the mould when she was born”.
They added: “Liv loved dressing up and was very particular on how she was dressed, like any other little girl she loved doing her makeup and nails, she was nine going on 19.
“Liv was adored by everyone who knew her and would instantly make friends with anyone and everyone. She was often seen going up and down the street on her new bike she had just got for her birthday.
“Although her life was short, her personality certainly wasn’t and she lived it to the most she could, and would blow people away with her wit and kindness.
“We as a family are heartbroken and have lost a huge part of our life.”
