CCTV footage captured a brazen thug calmly heading home minutes after punching a grandfather who later died of his injuries. Nathan Gothard, 37, is seen on video returning to his address after assaulting David Darke, 66, outside a pub in Appleby Magna, Leicestershire.
The Incident
Mr Darke, a father of three and grandfather of three, fell to the ground and sustained a serious head injury after being punched by Gothard on Sunday, December 21, 2025. He never regained consciousness and died six days later at Queen's Medical Centre in Nottingham.
The court heard that Mr Darke, described as a Good Samaritan, had been trying to help Gothard back to his feet after Gothard lost a fight with another man outside the pub. However, Gothard turned his anger on Mr Darke and punched him, causing him to fall and hit his head on the ground.
Legal Proceedings
Gothard was initially arrested on suspicion of Section 20 Grievous Bodily Harm (GBH) but was later charged with murder after Mr Darke's death. At Leicester Crown Court, a jury found him guilty of manslaughter. He will be sentenced on May 22, 2026.
Police released bodycam footage of Gothard's arrest, showing him complying with officers at his home. Detective Inspector Kevin Hames, from the East Midlands Special Operations Unit, said: "In those fateful few moments a family have been left devastated, and the perpetrator now faces a lengthy term in prison."
Family Tribute
In a statement, Mr Darke's family said: "Dave was a deeply loved father to three daughters and a proud grandfather to three boys. He was a much-loved brother and a dear friend. Dave will live on forever in our hearts, minds and souls."
They added: "He was a strong, active, intelligent and kind person who was a friend to all. He was a devoted family man with a deep passion for life, the outdoors, nature and walking. His life was tragically cut short."
Gothard will be sentenced at Leicester Crown Court later this month.
