Emmerdale horror as Tom King is 'killed' after getting struck with an axe

Emmerdale viewers were left on the edge of their seats on Thursday (September 26) as Belle Dingle, played by Eden Taylor-Draper, found herself in a life-threatening situation.

The character has been subjected to months of torment and physical abuse at the hands of her estranged husband Tom King, portrayed by James Chase, who even convinced her that her beloved pet had died.

Earlier this week, Belle bravely decided to report Tom's abusive behaviour to the police after discovering hidden cameras in her home, evidence that he had been spying on her.

However, when Tom's new romantic interest Amelia Spencer (Daisy Campbell) got wind of Belle's plan, she revealed it to him.

In an attempt to help Amelia escape from Tom's violent clutches, Belle invited the young girl to Wishing Well Cottage, but Amelia promptly informed Tom about this.

In a chilling turn of events, Tom later let himself into the house, leaving Belle paralysed with fear.

Tom quickly reasserted his dominance over Belle, beating her until she was bloody and then blaming her for his actions. However, Belle soon saw a chance to escape and took it, grabbing a nearby hunting rifle as she fled, reports the Manchester Evening News.

Tragically, Tom was hot on her heels, wielding an axe. Belle managed to find a hiding place, but Tom eventually located her and, in a terrifying move, hacked down the door to reach her.

The two then came face to face, with Tom dropping his axe and daring Belle to shoot him. Belle pulled the trigger, but the safety was on, blocking the shot. In a horrifying twist, Tom then unlocked the safety and pointed the gun at Belle.

As Belle was confronted with the grim prospect of death, Tom was prepared to revel in his triumph, admiring his reflection in a shattered mirror before Belle attacked him with the axe he had carelessly left on the floor, fearing for her life.

But has Tom met his end? Or will he pull through?

Emmerdale airs weekdays at 7:30pm on ITV1 and ITVX