Gosport Cycle Rage Killer Snellgrove Jailed for Killing Royal Navy Veteran Roy Galvin
A cycling row ended in tragedy when 28-year-old Duncan Snellgrove was locked up for three years and four months today at Portsmouth Crown Court. The Howe Road man admitted manslaughter over the death of 69-year-old Roy Galvin.
Deadly Fall on Bury Road
The horror unfolded on Sunday, September 25, when Mr Galvin was out with his wife, who uses a wheelchair. A heated exchange with Snellgrove, cycling on Bury Road’s one-way system, turned violent. Snellgrove shoved Mr Galvin, who hit his head hard on the road.
Despite emergency treatment, Roy succumbed to his injuries three days later in QA Hospital, Cosham.
Following the assault, Snellgrove cycled off towards Stoke Road, leaving the tragic scene behind.
Judge Delivers Justice
Judge Munroe handed down a 40-month jail term, condemning Snellgrove’s actions as cruel.
“Your actions have deprived a delightful couple of many happy years together,” the judge said.
Family Mourns, Police Speak Out
Detective Inspector Adam Price called the attack “cowardly” and “completely disproportionate.” He said:
“This was a cowardly assault on a Royal Navy veteran who was simply walking home with his wife on a Sunday afternoon. Snellgrove’s unnecessary aggression had tragic consequences.”
He praised witnesses and local residents whose help was vital in securing the sentence.
Heartbreaking Tribute from Widow
Roy’s widow Deborah said:
“Roy was my total companion and my best friend in the world. He was incredibly intelligent, very funny, and loved life. Roy retired from the Royal Navy in 1987 and was well-known in the local area, often walking poodles.
“He was a wonderful husband, brother, and uncle. We were married in 2004 and shared so many happy years. His death has left a terrible hole in my life.”
Deborah revealed how the traumatic memory of the assault haunts her every day.
Snellgrove’s Troubled Past
The court heard Snellgrove has 17 previous convictions covering 29 offences, including violent attacks, dating back to his teens.
His defence lawyer said Snellgrove suffers from nightmares and had written to Mrs Galvin to apologise.
This shocking case casts a spotlight on the deadly potential of road rage. A simple bike ride turned fatal, destroying one family’s world.
