Man Jailed Over Fatal Head Injury in Worsley Court Fight
Officers rushed to Worsley Court on February 13, 2020, after reports that Stuart Newton had suffered serious head injuries. He was taken to hospital but sadly died the next day.
Assailant Arrested and Charged
Nathan Scott Williams, 32, from Worsley Court, Oswaldtwistle, was arrested the day after the incident and later charged with murder. After a trial that collapsed due to a deadlocked jury, Williams pleaded guilty to manslaughter earlier this year at Preston Crown Court.
Night of Violence
On the evening of February 12, 2020, Williams and Mr Newton were socialising with others nearby. What started as a friendly gathering turned sour after a comment about childcare was mistakenly directed at Williams. The pair left the property separately. Witnesses soon heard Williams shout, “I’ve hit him.”
Seconds later, Mr Newton was found lying on the ground with head injuries. Williams returned shortly afterward and told others, “I didn’t mean it.”
Brutal Attack with Deadly Consequences
Mr Newton was rushed to hospital with multiple fractures to his face and skull, plus a brain bleed. He never regained consciousness and died later that morning. The cause of death was blunt head trauma.
While Mr Newton fought for his life, Williams boasted to friends that he wouldn’t tolerate being spoken to like that and admitted to punching the victim. Forensic evidence linked Mr Newton’s blood to Williams’ trainers, and a text message revealed Williams feared he had “either killed Mr Newton or put him into a coma.”
Police and Family Speak Out
“This senseless violence has cost a loving family man his life,” said DCI Lee Wilson. “The level of violence Williams used was completely unacceptable and disproportionate to anything Stuart may have said or done. I’m pleased Williams took responsibility by pleading guilty to manslaughter and that Stuart’s family have seen justice served.”
Mr Newton’s family described him as “a beloved husband, father, and grandfather who was taken too soon at 65. An intelligent, hardworking man who loved cooking, crosswords, and sports. He was a devoted family man who will be dearly missed.”
“Thanks to everyone involved in the investigation and prosecution – especially DCI Lee Wilson and Andrew Ford QC – for their tireless efforts. Now, after two years, we can begin to grieve knowing justice has been served.”
Katie Marsden, Senior Crown Prosecutor for North West CPS, said: “This tragic case involved the unnecessary death of a 65-year-old man. Nathan Williams assaulted Stuart Newton after a brief argument, causing fatal head injuries. Our thoughts remain with Stuart’s family and friends at this difficult time.”
