Hammer Horror: Man Attacks Best Mate, Caught After Bus Passenger’s Tip-Off
Friendship Turns Fatal in Birmingham
Gary O’Neill launched a brutal hammer attack on his “best friend” Kenneth Ford at a Birmingham bedsit on Colebrook Road on 27 February 2022. Kenneth, 30, was left with serious bruises and puncture wounds, including a nasty 10p-sized injury near his temple.
Escape Bid Foiled by Sharp-Eared Passenger
O’Neill, 32, fled the scene the next morning, hopping on a bus bound for Glasgow. But his getaway was short-lived. A quick-thinking passenger overheard him on the phone bragging about how he’d “straightened Ken out” — and suspected paramedics were needed.
That passenger called 999, alerting police just in time. When O’Neill got off the bus in Glasgow, Police Scotland were waiting. He was found wearing blood-stained clothes and clutching his Birmingham-to-Glasgow ticket.
Forensic Evidence Seals Fate
Despite refusing to answer questions, DNA tests revealed Kenneth’s blood on O’Neill’s joggers. Phone data placed him at the scene that night. The horrific attack saw Kenneth trying desperately to defend himself, with injuries confirming a savage assault.
Court Verdict and What’s Next
O’Neill was found not guilty of murder yesterday (12 Dec) at Birmingham Crown Court. However, the jury accepted his plea of manslaughter due to diminished responsibility. He faces sentencing on 9 February.
Detective Inspector Michelle Thurgood said, “O’Neill and Mr Ford were best friends, but they drank heavily and took prescription drugs. The attack was sustained and horrific, with Kenneth found with defensive wounds as he tried to protect himself. We’re grateful to the bus passenger whose call helped us nail O’Neill in Glasgow. My thoughts remain with Kenneth’s family.”
