The heartbroken family of a pub boss who tragically died after an assault at a Lichfield bar have told how he will be 'forever in our hearts'. Matt O'Gara suffered serious injuries at Ricco and Loren, a wine and cocktail venue on Market Street, on Sunday night, May 24. Staffordshire Police said they were called to reports of two men being punched. Mr O'Gara tragically died in hospital on Tuesday, May 26.
Family's tribute
In a devastating social media post, his mother Anne wrote: 'My beautiful son taken away from us so suddenly. Dad and me will never get over this. You was too young to leave us. Forever in our hearts.' His niece Jade added: 'My first best friend and my uncle. I will forever keep saying you was the BEST person. We will miss you forever and love you for always.'
Tributes from pubs
The Plough, where Mr O'Gara was a director, posted: 'Due to some very sad news involving one of our business partners, we will be closed today and tomorrow. At this difficult time, we would like to give our staff and the family involved the time, privacy, and respect they need.' Ricco & Loren said: 'As a small local family business, we are devastated by the events of the last few days. We have been working closely with the police in this matter, and we will continue to do so throughout this incredibly sad and difficult time.' Another Lichfield pub, The George IV, posted: 'The city of Lichfield grieves together. Remembering those landlords who have tragically lost their lives.'
Second victim and court appearance
Second victim Adam Cooper, 62, was also injured in the same incident but has since been discharged from hospital. Billy Allison, 36, from Solihull, appeared at North Staffordshire Justice Centre in Newcastle-under-Lyme on Wednesday, May 27. He has been charged with murder and GBH with intent and was remanded into custody to appear before a judge at Stafford Crown Court on Thursday, May 28.
Staffordshire Police urge anyone with information to contact them via their online portal or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
