A pub-goer who fatally punched a 66-year-old grandfather after losing a fight outside a pub has been found guilty of manslaughter. Nathan Gothard, 37, knocked David Darke to the ground near the Crown Inn in Appleby Magna, Leicestershire, days before Christmas last year, causing his skull to crack.
The incident occurred when an altercation broke out between the two men. Gothard, who had been drinking, threw a single punch that struck Darke, causing him to fall and hit his head on the pavement. Darke was rushed to the hospital but died from his injuries.
The jury at Leicester Crown Court deliberated for several hours before reaching a verdict of guilty. Gothard showed no emotion as the verdict was read. He will be sentenced at a later date.
Darke's family released a statement expressing their relief at the verdict, saying, "We are grateful that justice has been served. David was a loving husband, father, and grandfather who was taken from us in a senseless act of violence. We hope this serves as a reminder of the devastating consequences of such actions."
The case has drawn attention to the issue of alcohol-related violence and the dangers of single-punch attacks. Police have urged the public to think twice before engaging in physical altercations, especially under the influence of alcohol.
Gothard had initially claimed self-defense, but the prosecution argued that his actions were excessive and unjustified. The court heard that Gothard had a previous conviction for assault, which was taken into consideration during the trial.
This is a breaking news story and updates will follow as more information becomes available.
