The man known as the “Coronation Street Rapist”, who terrorised women in their own homes across northern England, has died in prison, bringing an end to a case that sparked fear, public outrage, and years of concern over whether he should ever have been released.
The Coronation Street Rapist Dies Behind Bars
Andrew Davies, formerly known as Andrew Barlow and Andrew Longmire, died in custody at the age of 69. He was serving 13 life sentences for a series of brutal rapes committed during the 1980s. Reports suggest he died from natural causes just over two weeks ago.
Barlow earned his chilling nickname because he targeted women in their terraced homes, mainly in Greater Manchester. He often waited until husbands or fathers left for work before attacking. His crimes also spread across Cheshire, Staffordshire, Lancashire, and South Yorkshire, leaving several communities living in fear.
In 1988, he was convicted of raping 11 women and received 11 life sentences along with an additional 56 years for other offences. Years later, DNA evidence linked him to earlier attacks from 1981 and 1982, leading to two more life sentences in 2010 and 2017. Despite this, only two additional years were added each time since he had already exceeded his original tariff.
A Violent History And A Failed Release
Davies’ criminal past also included shooting at police officers during his arrest in Bebington, Merseyside, after evading capture at Leeds railway station. He was later convicted of attempted murder, although the officers were not injured.
After spending 34 years behind bars, he was released in March 2023 under strict licence conditions. Authorities escorted him to a probation hostel, but within six weeks. They recalled him to prison due to breaches and concerns about his behaviour. Officials concluded that the risk he posed could not be managed in the community.
Davies spent his final days at HMP Moorland near Doncaster. The Prison Service confirmed his death on February 28, 2026, and stated that the Prisons and Probation Ombudsman will investigate. A spokesperson added that these were despicable crimes and said their thoughts remain with the victims who continue to live with the consequences. Stay tuned to Soap Opera Daily for more Coronation Street spoilers.