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Shoplifter's Stress Triggers Fatal Heart Attack
29 Jan
Summary
- A shoplifter's actions caused a security guard to have a fatal heart attack.
- The guard died after confronting the shoplifter over stolen alcohol.
- The accused faces a significant jail sentence for culpable homicide.
A woman who caused a security guard to suffer a fatal heart attack while she was shoplifting faces a substantial prison sentence. Natasha Smith, 38, admitted to culpable homicide in the death of Alun Harris-Richards, 61, on June 30, 2024, at an Asda store in Arbroath. Mr. Harris-Richards, a former Royal Marine, died after experiencing a heart attack and striking his head during a confrontation with Smith over stolen alcohol.
During the incident, Smith exhibited aggressive behavior, swore at Mr. Harris-Richards, and falsely accused him of assault. Court heard that the stress of the encounter exacerbated undiagnosed heart disease in the victim. Smith, who has a history of shoplifting and other offenses, also assaulted a female employee, Chloe Robinson, after Mr. Harris-Richards fell.
The judge presiding over the case stated that a significant custodial sentence is the only possible outcome. Smith's sentencing has been adjourned for a background report, and she remains remanded in custody. The court viewed bodycam footage showing Smith's continued aggressive and threatening conduct.
