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Man Admits Fatal Dancefloor Punch
11 Nov
Summary
- Man admits manslaughter for fatal punch delivered on dancefloor.
- The accused expressed deep sorrow for causing the victim's death.
- The victim was the owner of a pub outside Lichfield.
Billy Allison has pleaded guilty to the manslaughter of Matthew O'Gara, admitting to delivering a fatal punch on a dancefloor in Lichfield. Allison expressed remorse, stating he is "just really sorry for what I did that night and really sorry my actions caused the end of someone's life."
The incident occurred at the Ricco and Loren bar on May 24. The court heard that Allison, 36, delivered a powerful blow to O'Gara, 44, with considerable force. O'Gara, the owner of The Plough pub, was rendered unconscious and died in hospital two days later.
Allison also admitted to causing grievous bodily harm to O'Gara's friend, Adam Cooper. He denied the attack was intended to cause serious harm or death, describing his actions as "a bit of a grey area."
Prosecutors characterized the attack as unprovoked. O'Gara, who was unaware of Allison's presence, was struck on the side of the neck. The impact was so severe it caused bleeding, a brain hemorrhage, and cardiac arrest.
Details of Allison's past offenses, including cautions for criminal damage and actual bodily harm, were presented to the court. He is expected to continue giving evidence.
