A thug who punched a 66-year-old grandfather outside a pub has been found guilty of manslaughter. David Darke, who had been enjoying a Christmas night out, fell to the ground after being hit by Nathan Gothard on December 21, 2025. He was rushed to hospital with a serious head injury but never regained consciousness and died six days later.
Details of the Attack
Leicester Crown Court heard that Gothard, 37, had been harassing female members of the victim's group at the pub in Appleby Magna, Leicestershire, and making unwelcome advances. He ignored requests to leave them alone and was asked to leave by staff, which he eventually did after 20 minutes. However, Gothard waited outside the pub and attacked Mr. Darke. Part of the attack, which resulted in the victim's traumatic head injury, was captured on CCTV. Footage also showed Gothard, of Church Street, Appleby Magna, walking back to his home.
Legal Proceedings
Gothard was initially arrested on suspicion of Section 20 Grievous Bodily Harm. But following Mr. Darke's death, he was further arrested on suspicion of murder. He was found guilty of manslaughter on Thursday, May 7, and is due to be sentenced on May 22.
Police Statement
Det Insp Kevin Hames, from the East Midlands Special Operations Unit Murder Investigation Team, said: “In those fateful few moments a family have been left devastated, and the perpetrator now faces a lengthy term in prison. Gothard’s actions that day could have been avoided if he had just walked away. This case highlights how one-punch encounters can result in the loss of life. Dave’s family have shown immense courage throughout the investigation and legal process, this has been in no way easy for them. We hope this outcome helps them come to terms with the events of that night and the loss of their loved one.”
