Stranger’s Rage Ends Dad’s Life and Leaves Son Fighting for Recovery
A random act of violence turned deadly when Jermaine Richards attacked David Ford and his son Ryan, leaving David dead and Ryan in hospital with serious head injuries.
Sheffield Crown Court Verdict: Murder Conviction
After more than nine hours of jury deliberation, Sheffield Crown Court found Richards guilty of murdering David Ford and of Section 18 assault against Ryan. The horror unfolded in the early hours of Saturday, 3 September 2022.
The Deadly Morning Encounter
- Around 5.45am, Ryan met his dad David for their usual fishing trip on St John’s Road.
- As Ryan loaded fishing gear into David’s car, Richards approached, demanding a lift to Manor Park Centre.
- When refused, Richards flew into a rage, punching Ryan first before David tried to intervene.
- Richards fled, only to confront them again moments later.
- He then attacked both men savagely, continuing even after they fell to the ground.
- Richards stole David’s Kia Sportage, drove off, then shockingly returned to run David over before speeding away.
Tragic Aftermath and Police Investigation
David Ford suffered catastrophic injuries, including facial and neck wounds from the assault, and ultimately died from being run over. Richards, still driving David’s car, later sparked another disturbance on City Road, Sheffield, leading police to the scene.
“This was a horrific incident which has left a family suffering immense grief,” said Temporary DCI Andrew Knowles.
“David and Ryan were frequent fishers – a simple father-and-son day ruined by the actions of one man. We hope the conviction helps the family start to move forward.”
“I pay tribute to David’s wife and family for their extraordinary restraint throughout the trial despite Richards trying to excuse his actions.”
Next Steps for Killer Richards
The 31-year-old from Wordsworth Drive, Sheffield, was also cleared of two counts of racially aggravated public order offences against police officers. He remains in custody awaiting sentencing, with the trial having lasted 13 days since it began on 6 March.
