Man jailed for Oswestry car park sword death
A 19-year-old man was today convicted of manslaughter following the death of a man after a fight at car park in Oswestry earlier this year.
Richard Adam Reece, of Lord Street, Oswestry, denied murdering 21-year-old Danny Jones from Chirk during a fight at Oak Street car park on 24 April.
Mr Jones, who has a young son, died from a single wound caused by an ornamental sword.
The jury at Birmingham Crown Court found Reece guilty of manslaughter. He was sentenced to 12 years imprisonment, half of which will be on licence.
Speaking after today’s conviction, Detective Inspector Steve Tonks said his first thoughts were for Danny’s parents and family.
DI Tonks, the senior investigating officer with West Mercia Police, said:
“They have endured a trial lasting more than a fortnight, listening to the huge amount of detailed evidence surrounding Danny’s death. I know they have suffered tremendously and I pay tribute to the dignified manner in which they have listened to the evidence and supported the case since Danny was killed.”
“This incident demonstrates, yet again, that the carrying of knives or other bladed weapons runs a huge risk of ending in tragic consequences.
“What started as an argument and developed into a scuffle, resulted in a young man losing his life because a blade was produced. Reece left the scene to arm himself and the moment he took the sword back to confront Danny, there was always the risk of a fatal outcome.
“This case sends out a clear message about violent crime and those prepared to arm themselves with weapons. Anyone carrying a knife or similar bladed instrument as a weapon will be arrested, charged and put before the courts. They can expect a lengthy prison sentence.”
DCI Tonks added that Danny’s death had left a big impression on the local community in and around Oswestry. He thanked everyone who came forward as witnesses during the course of the investigation, especially those who gave evidence in the court case.
