Man Jailed for Life Over Fatal Killamarsh Stabbing
Bradley Ward has been convicted of murder after a three-week trial at Derby Crown Court. The 24-year-old stabbed Ricky Collins, 31, who later died from his injuries.
Fatal Stabbing on Westthorpe Road
Police rushed to Westthorpe Road on the evening of Monday 29 March following reports of an assault. Ricky, from Sheffield, had suffered two vicious stab wounds to his body and arm. Despite staggering down the road for help, he collapsed and was rushed to hospital but sadly died shortly after midnight on 30 March. One of the stabs had severed a major artery, causing fatal bleeding.
Self-Defence Claim Fails
During the trial, it emerged Ward had pulled up beside Ricky’s van before attacking him. Ward denied murder, claiming self-defence, but the jury did not buy his story.
Life Behind Bars for Ward and Jail Terms for Accomplices
On Wednesday 19 January, Ward was sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 23 years. Detective Chief Inspector Sally Blaiklok, who led the investigation, said: “No sentence imposed by the court will bring Ricky back but I hope his family and friends can draw some comfort from knowing the man responsible has been brought to justice and will remain behind bars for years to come.”
Three others connected to the case pleaded guilty to assisting an offender. Martin Mongan, 45, from Pontefract, and Ward’s father David Ward, 44, both received two-year jail terms. Kelly Ward, 43, is due for sentencing at a later hearing.
