Inmate’s single punch at Lancaster Farms leads to tragic death
Joshua Kettle Jailed Over Prison Assault
Joshua Kettle, 30, has been handed a three and a half year prison sentence at Preston Crown Court. The sentence follows his brutal attack on fellow inmate Richard Hamill, 39, inside HMP Lancaster Farms last year.
Fatal Blow Causes Rare Brain Injury
On June 23, 2019, police were called after reports of an assault within the prison. Mr Hamill, from Morecambe, was found seriously injured from a single blow to the chest while leaning against a pool table in the recreation room. Rushed to Royal Preston Hospital, he tragically passed away five days later on June 28 without regaining consciousness.
Investigations revealed that Kettle approached Mr Hamill and struck him just once. A Home Office post-mortem uncovered the cause of death: a ‘blood hammer effect’—a surge in blood pressure that led to the rupture of a pre-existing Berry aneurysm in Mr Hamill’s brain. This triggered a fatal subarachnoid haemorrhage.
Manslaughter Charge for Reckless Assault
Initially arrested for assault, Kettle was later charged with manslaughter after the CPS reviewed the evidence. He pleaded guilty to the charge earlier this year.
Detective Chief Inspector Gareth Willis said, “Mr Hamill’s death was both tragic and entirely avoidable. The offender struck him without warning, causing catastrophic injuries.” He added, “While Kettle did not intend to kill or cause serious harm, his reckless actions had fatal consequences.”
DCI Willis closed with sympathy for the victim’s loved ones: “The sentence and Kettle’s acceptance of guilt hopefully bring some comfort and closure to Mr Hamill’s friends and family during this sad time.”
