A murder investigation has been launched by Leicestershire Police following the death of a 66-year-old man who was seriously injured in an alleged assault outside a village pub.
Details of the alleged assault
The incident occurred on Sunday, December 21, just before 9.45pm on Church Street in Appleby Magna, near Measham. The victim, David Darke, was reportedly punched outside The Crown Inn, sustaining a serious head injury.
Emergency services were called and Mr Darke was taken to Queen's Medical Centre in Nottingham for treatment. Tragically, he passed away at the hospital on Saturday, December 27, a week after the alleged attack.
Police investigation and arrests
In the immediate aftermath, a 36-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm. He was released on police bail pending further enquiries.
Following Mr Darke's death, the suspect was arrested again on suspicion of murder on Saturday, December 28. He remains in police custody and is due to be re-interviewed by detectives.
Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Inspector Kevin Hames, stated: “The initial investigation resulted in us identifying several witnesses and examining CCTV from the area. Those enquiries will continue.”
Appeal for witnesses
Leicestershire Police are continuing to appeal for information. Detective Inspector Hames added: “We would still encourage anyone who was in Church Street last Sunday evening and hasn’t yet spoken with officers to get in touch. We need to speak to as many people as possible who can help us piece together what happened.”
The force has confirmed that specialist officers are supporting Mr Darke's family during what they describe as an “extremely difficult time.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101, quoting crime reference number 25*744889.
