A family has spoken of their 'absolute nightmare' after five individuals were found guilty of the murder of a devoted father following a brutal attack at a West Bromwich pub.
A Night Out Turns to Tragedy
Matthew Adams, aged 33 from Walsall, was enjoying a family disco with his partner at the Gough Arms in the early hours of March 19, 2023, when a violent disorder erupted. The court heard that the violence was triggered by derogatory comments made towards Matthew's partner.
Inside the pub, Matthew was subjected to a sustained assault. He was repeatedly punched and kicked in the head and body. The attack escalated when a teenage defendant, who cannot be named for legal reasons, picked up a floor sign and used it as a weapon against him.
Matthew was then taken outside the pub where the violence continued. He was knocked unconscious for almost three minutes. After the assault, the defendants fled the scene, leaving Matthew with multiple, serious injuries.
A Family's Heartbreaking Loss
Despite his considerable pain, Matthew returned home to recover. Tragically, his condition deteriorated and he was taken to hospital. On Thursday, March 23, 2023, just four days after the attack, Matthew suffered a cardiac arrest and sadly died.
Following the verdicts, Matthew's heartbroken family released an emotional tribute, describing the 'massive void' his loss has left. They stated: "Our whole family and Matt’s friends continue to struggle with the loss of Matt. We cannot believe we are living this absolute nightmare."
The tribute poignantly added, "Matt’s children have lost a devoted daddy. Matt was a loving son, an adored younger brother, a kind and generous uncle, a much-loved cousin and a loyal friend to many." They remembered him as the 'life and soul' of their family, whose smile and cheeky laugh could cheer up the darkest of days.
Justice Served as Five Await Sentencing
After a trial, five people were found guilty in connection with Matthew's death. John Wise, 43, from Sandwell; Mark Shorthouse, 54, of Church Vale, West Bromwich; Ryan Stanley, 31, of Peel Street, West Bromwich; and a 17-year-old boy were all convicted of murder and violent disorder.
Nichola Stanley, aged 40, from Sandwell, was found guilty of violent disorder. The family expressed that they are 'appalled' by the horrific violence Matthew was subjected to and are 'utterly devastated' that he lost his life with little or no remorse shown from those involved.
All five defendants are now awaiting their fate, with sentencing scheduled for January 30 next year.
