A tragic family dispute over a cottage inheritance turned fatal when a 74-year-old pensioner died after being pushed to the ground by his stepson, a court has heard.
The altercation occurred during a heated argument about property left by the victim's late wife, revealing a bitter family conflict that ended in tragedy.
The Fatal Confrontation
David James, 74, collapsed and died following what prosecutors describe as a 'physical altercation' with his stepson, Michael Anderson, 52. The incident took place at the family property that had become the centre of an inheritance dispute.
According to court testimony, the argument escalated rapidly when Anderson allegedly shoved his elderly stepfather during a confrontation about the cottage that James had inherited from his deceased wife.
Inheritance Tensions Boil Over
The court heard how longstanding tensions over the property inheritance from James's late wife had been simmering for months before the fatal encounter. The cottage, described as a modest but valuable family home, represented more than just bricks and mortar to both parties.
Prosecutors outlined how what began as a verbal disagreement quickly turned physical, with Anderson allegedly pushing the pensioner to the ground during the heated exchange.
Medical Emergency and Aftermath
Following the push, James suffered immediate medical distress and collapsed at the scene. Despite emergency services being called and rapid medical intervention, the 74-year-old was pronounced dead shortly afterward.
The stepson now faces serious charges related to the incident, with the court examining whether the push directly contributed to the pensioner's death.
A Family Torn Apart
Neighbours and family friends described the situation as 'heartbreaking', noting that what should have been a time of family support following the wife's death had instead descended into acrimony and now tragedy.
The case continues to unfold in court, serving as a stark reminder of how inheritance disputes can tear families apart with devastating consequences.
