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Man on Trial: Fatal Halloween Party Brawl
29 Apr
Summary
- A man is on trial for allegedly killing Luke Harden after a Halloween party.
- The accused claims self-defense, stating Harden attacked his girlfriend.
- Prosecutors allege a sudden, brutal assault that left Harden with catastrophic injuries.
Bhekisani Matabiswana, 26, is currently on trial for the alleged murder of Luke Harden, 37, following a confrontation that occurred shortly after midnight on November 1, 2025. Harden was discovered unresponsive on Newchurch Road in Bacup, Lancashire, with what authorities described as catastrophic facial injuries. The incident reportedly stemmed from an altercation after both individuals had attended a Halloween party at the Rosemount Working Men's Club. Matabiswana has pleaded not guilty, asserting he acted in self-defense after Harden allegedly attempted to grab his then-girlfriend, Natalie Chadwick. Prosecutors contend that the assault was sudden, swift, and brutal, leaving Harden unable to defend himself. Chadwick was previously found not guilty due to insufficient evidence. Text messages allegedly sent by Matabiswana after the incident stated he had "beat someone up for trying to rape some girl" and that the individual died, though his defense maintains he did not intend grievous bodily harm. The trial continues this week.
