Police have confirmed that no further action will be taken against a homeowner who shot dead a 19-year-old burglar during a break-in at a remote farm in Whaley Bridge, Derbyshire. The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) decided not to bring charges, citing the householder's legal right to defend himself.
Fatal Shooting at Eccles Road Farm
Marcus Smith, a budding footballer who played for Chapel Town FC, was pronounced dead at the scene after suffering a fatal gunshot wound in the early hours of May 1, 2024. The incident occurred at a farm on Eccles Road, Whaley Bridge. A second 19-year-old man, also injured by gunfire that same evening, was found nearby and treated in hospital before being discharged.
Police and forensics remained at the farm for several days following the shooting. Drone footage captured two police vans and four unmarked vehicles parked beside the two-storey property.
Homeowner Arrested and Released
The homeowner, a man in his 50s, was arrested on suspicion of murder and taken into custody. It was revealed that the shooting took place during a suspected burglary. He was subsequently released on police bail while investigations continued. On Tuesday, July 11, 2026, more than two years after the incident, Derbyshire Constabulary confirmed that no further action would be taken against him, and he was released from bail.
CPS Decision Based on Self-Defence Laws
Detectives carried out a thorough investigation and submitted a file of evidence to the CPS. The CPS concluded that the homeowner had discharged a legally-held firearm when confronted with burglars on his property. Janine McKinney, chief crown prosecutor for CPS East Midlands, stated: “After careful analysis of all the evidence gathered during the police investigation, our prosecutors have decided that there will be no criminal charges in relation to the death of Marcus Smith or the serious injury of another male. This decision has been made in accordance with our statutory legal tests as prosecutors and the law surrounding the householder’s rights to defend themself. Our thoughts are with Mr Smith’s family and loved ones.”
Burglary Charges for Three Men
Although no charges were brought for the shooting, the CPS confirmed that three men will face proceedings for burglary in connection with the incident and a separate burglary at the same property the night before the shooting. The identities of those men have not been disclosed.
