A Swindon man has been found guilty of the brutal murder of his uncle after ramming his head against a wall multiple times in a violent assault.
Grant Walker, 32, of Faringdon Road, was convicted by a jury at Bristol Crown Court following a five-day trial that concluded on 16th August. The attack resulted in the tragic death of 53-year-old Terry Ricketts at his home in Westbourne Court, Swindon.
The court heard that the incident took place on 25 February, when Walker, in an unprovoked assault, put his uncle in a headlock and repeatedly struck his head against a wall. Terry went into cardiac arrest as a result of the attack and, despite the swift response of emergency services, was pronounced dead at the scene. Walker fled the scene but was arrested the following morning by police and later charged with murder.
During the trial, Walker admitted to grabbing Terry and assaulting him but denied any intention to kill or cause serious harm. He claimed that Terry had startled him by approaching from behind. However, the jury found Walker guilty of murder.
Senior Investigating Officer Detective Inspector Debbie Hatch, who led the case, expressed her sympathy for Terry’s family, saying, “My condolences go out to Terry’s family and loved ones. I’d like to thank them for their support and co-operation throughout this investigation and I hope this guilty verdict will bring an element of closure.
“On the evening in question, Terry should have been safe in his home enjoying time with his family, but was instead subjected to a vicious and violent unprovoked assault by his nephew, which sadly resulted in him losing his life.”
DI Hatch also acknowledged the hard work of the officers involved in the investigation, which secured the conviction. “Terry was clearly a much-loved member of his family who will be forever missed,” she added.
Walker has been remanded in custody and is due to be sentenced on 4th October.
