In fact I stand to be corrected here but I don't off the top of my head recall any official who was part of the initial investigation even suggesting that the killer was responsible for cutting or tearing the apron in any event.
Inspector Edward Collard:
"I produce a portion of the apron which deceased was apparently wearing which had been cut through and was found outside her dress".
This portion of the apron is specifically described as having been cut (not torn); if not by the killer then by whom, bearing in mind that the portion referred to was "found outside her dress" i.e. still with the body?
People who are known to have been with Eddowes shortly before her demise and who were in possession of an implement capable of cutting cloth:
Her killer? Definitely.
Someone else? Probably not.
I think Collard's evidence should be seen as "suggesting that the killer was responsible", don't you?
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