Portadown: Man Given Life Sentence For Murder of Sister

Kornelijus Bracas appeared before court, Monday 26 January, for offences including the murder of his sister, Alesia Nazarova, and arson with intent to endanger the life of his 12-year-old niece.

The 27-year-old was given a life sentence last October having pleaded guilty to murder aggravated by domestic abuse.

Today, appearing before Belfast Crown Court, Bracas was told he will serve a minimum of 24 years in prison. 

Detective Inspector Sean Armstrong said: “Alesia Nazarova, aged 37, was murdered by Kornelijus Bracas in her Portadown home in March 2023.

“Bracas’ niece was just 12 years old when her life was put in danger from a fire started deliberately in the family home.”

Detective Inspector Armstrong continued: “Officers attended the house fire, along with colleagues from the Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service and the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service. This was in the early hours of Tuesday 21 March in 2023.

“Alesia was sadly pronounced dead at the scene. A post-mortem examination later confirmed that she had died from an incised wound to the neck.

“Bracas’ niece, who was trapped inside an upstairs bedroom, was rescued by the Fire Service.

“Kornelijus Bracas was found and arrested some hours later.  Subsequently, last October, he pleaded guilty to Alesia’s murder aggravated by domestic abuse; arson with intent to endanger the life of his niece; arson with intent endangering the lives of those living in the adjoining terraced houses; and theft of Alesia’s bank card.”

He continued: “Violence against women and girls is not, and never has been, acceptable.  And, tragically, in this case an act of violence has taken a young woman’s life.

“Working closely with our colleagues in the Public Prosecution Service, Bracas has today been held to account.  His actions, however, have torn a loving family apart.  My heart goes out to family members who are left with unimaginable sadness and pain.”

The detective 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.

“I am also keen to take this opportunity to thank those members of the public who assisted prior to the arrival of emergency services.  And, importantly, I have absolutely no doubt that the actions and bravery of both the Fire Service and Ambulance Service saved a young girl’s life.”


Family statement

Our hearts remain broken, and our family will never be the same again. 

While there’s no magical solution to lessen our pain, we’re grateful for, and have taken genuine comfort from, the kind words and actions of others.    

My message to those who are listening or reading this is simple but heartfelt: please spread love, not hate.

Ends