Man Jailed for Fatal Pub Stabbing Near Faversham
A violent night out turned deadly in Boughton-under-Blean. William Cosier, 34, has been found guilty of murder at Canterbury Crown Court for stabbing Adam Pritchard, 35, to death in March 2024.
Chaos Erupts at Queens Head Pub
It all kicked off at around 10:30 pm on 13 March inside the Queens Head on The Street. Cosier was drinking with friends when Adam Pritchard walked in. What started as a chat quickly exploded into violence. Cosier threw the first punch before swinging a bar stool overhead, forcing Pritchard to flee.
Ignoring pleas from pub staff, Cosier grabbed a 22cm knife from the kitchen. He chased Pritchard outside, hiding the deadly weapon behind his back.
Fight in the Road Ends in Murder
Outside, Pritchard brandished a BB gun and fired at Cosier. The pair scrambled into the road, narrowly missing a passing minibus that had to swerve out of the way. During the savage struggle, Cosier stabbed Pritchard twice. The victim collapsed but was unable to be saved despite attempts by bystanders and paramedics.
Convicted Killer Faces Long Jail Term
Cosier fled the scene in a white Mercedes but handed himself in at Canterbury Police Station the following day. Charged with murder and possession of a knife, he denied the claims but was found guilty after trial.
“Cosier had plenty of opportunity to de-escalate the confrontation. Instead, he armed himself with a large knife and continued to target his victim, who was backing away,” said Detective Inspector Lee Neiles. “I hope his conviction brings some closure to the grieving family.”
Cosier is due to be sentenced on 1 November 2024 and faces a lengthy prison sentence for the brutal killing.