Four Tram Staff to Face Manslaughter Charges Over Jack Barnes’ Death
Jack Barnes Dies After Tram Restraint
The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) has charged four tram workers with manslaughter in connection with the death of Jack Barnes, 29, from Hull. The victim died after being restrained by four “customer service representatives” on a Manchester Metrolink tram back in October 2016.
The tragic incident took place near Victoria Station in Manchester city centre. Just weeks later, Barnes passed away on December 2. A March 2021 inquest ruled his death an unlawful killing, with Senior Coroner Nigel Meadows stating the restraint “more than minimally” contributed to his cardiac arrest.
CPS Authorises Unlawful Act Manslaughter Charges
Rosemary Ainslie, head of the CPS Special Crime Division, confirmed the charges: “The CPS has authorised four individuals — Paul Fogarty, Brian Gartside, Stephen Rowlands, and Matthew Sellers — to be charged with unlawful act manslaughter.”
Additionally, Rowlands faces a separate charge for perverting the course of justice linked to a witness statement.
Fair Trial Warning and Court Date
Ainslie warned against any media or online activity that could prejudice the trial, urging the public to respect the defendants’ right to a fair hearing.
The four men will appear at the City of Manchester Magistrates’ Court on a date yet to be confirmed.
