Megan McKenna Flees UK After Machete-Wielding Home Intruders

By the Editorial Team · Tuesday, August 4, 2026

Megan McKenna left the UK to live in Germany after a violent home invasion two years ago in which three machete-wielding intruders broke into her house and stole jewelry. The attack and the early release of the perpetrators have raised concerns about the safety and security of public figures living alone.

Megan McKenna, former star of the reality show "The Only Way Is Essex" (Towie), has left the United Kingdom following a violent home invasion that left her fearful for her safety. The 33-year-old singer and television personality disclosed that she was attacked by three machete-wielding intruders during a break-in at her residence, an event that occurred two years ago but has since influenced her decision to relocate.

The incident took place shortly after McKenna and her husband, Scottish footballer Oliver Burke, 29, returned from their honeymoon. Burke, who currently plays for Union Berlin in Germany, had to return to his club, leaving McKenna alone in their UK home. According to McKenna, she fell asleep around 11 p.m. before awakening to what she described as the house "shaking." She soon realized intruders had gained access, using machetes and baseball bats to force their way in.

McKenna recounted that the assailants managed to break through a fake wall separating her dressing room and bedroom by hacking a hole with a baseball bat. She emphasized the harrowing nature of the episode, noting that the intruders remained inside for approximately seven minutes—an experience she described as "the longest seven minutes" of her life.

The intruders reportedly stole a significant amount of jewellery during the break-in. Although the perpetrators were apprehended and faced trial, McKenna expressed frustration that they were released about a year later and are now free to move about.

Following the attack, McKenna said she developed a heightened sense of caution, regularly locking her bedroom door at night due to ongoing concerns for her safety. The trauma ultimately prompted her to leave the UK and join her husband in Germany, where she currently resides.

The case highlights ongoing security concerns for public figures and others who live alone, particularly following violent criminal incidents. McKenna’s experience has drawn attention to the personal impact such invasions can have, influencing decisions about residency and personal safety.

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