Elderly Man Attacked in Hall Green Car Park
Two career criminals have been found guilty of manslaughter following a violent attack on an 83-year-old man in a Birmingham car park. The incident, which was captured on CCTV, occurred on Wednesday, May 14, at around 2.30pm.
Neil O'Donnell had just parked his car at a rehabilitation centre off Cateswell Road in Hall Green. He was there to visit his partner when Tony Griffin, armed with a screwdriver, ran towards his vehicle and attempted to steal his wristwatch.
Violent Struggle and Failed Robbery
Despite his age, Neil O'Donnell bravely fought off his assailant. The struggle lasted for some time, with Griffin showing clear determination to take the watch. Staff from the rehabilitation centre intervened, chasing Griffin away from the scene.
Following the attack, Mr O'Donnell was treated in hospital for an arm injury sustained during the grapple with Griffin. He was initially discharged, but his health tragically deteriorated. He passed away a week later from complications arising from an infection caused by the injury.
Police Investigation and Court Verdict
West Midlands Police's Homicide team, led by Detective Inspector Nigel Box, pieced together the events. Their investigation revealed that Griffin's accomplice, Wesley McDonnell, had been at a nearby Co-op store at the same time as Neil O'Donnell about 30 minutes before the attack.
CCTV footage showed McDonnell looking at Mr O'Donnell's watch. He then picked up Griffin, and the two men were seen following Neil's car on its short journey to the rehabilitation centre where the attack took place.
After the botched robbery, Griffin was captured on camera dumping his top and cap in a wheelie bin as he fled on foot. Both men were identified by officers; McDonnell through facial recognition technology and Griffin as his accomplice.
The pair, both of College Road in Kingstanding, Birmingham, were convicted after a trial at Warwick Crown Court. Griffin, 54, admitted attempted robbery, while McDonnell, 46, was found guilty of the same offence. Both were found guilty of manslaughter.
The court heard that Tony Griffin has 14 previous convictions for 32 offences, including burglary, robbery, and kidnapping. Wesley McDonnell has 29 convictions for 85 offences, including burglary, wounding with intent, and robbery. They are scheduled to be sentenced in January.
Devastation for a Grieving Family
Detective Inspector Box stated: "This was a violent attack on an elderly man who was simply going about his day. They are both career criminals and wrongly assumed Neil would be an easy target."
He added that Neil's death has been devastating for his family, who have requested privacy as they continue to grieve. The police have supported them throughout the court process.
