Tributes have poured in following the tragic death of British Army veteran Martin Chadburn, 53. Five arrests have been made over the brutal assault that left him with fatal head injuries in Hull.
‘Happy-Go-Lucky’ Veteran Taken Too Soon
Martin Chadburn was rushed to the hospital after a serious assault in Hull on Sunday, April 19. Known for his cheerful spirit, Martin was a dedicated fundraiser who climbed mountains for Hull 4 Heroes, a charity supporting veterans.
“After a couple of days of torture with the uncertainty of the outcome, I’m devastated to say my uncle Martin Chadburn has sadly lost his life today after he was brutally attacked early hours Sunday morning,” said his nephew, Lee, on Facebook. “The world’s cruel, my uncle served his country and had contributed from the start at Hull 4 Heroes doing unbelievable charity work and coming over some impressive challenges. He was obsessed with helping everyone around him. He was a happy-go-lucky man and we are devastated by his loss. “There are a lot of feelings running through our broken family once again. I have so, so much to say but it won’t make anything right.. but what I will say is I will miss you so much.”
Charity Boss Pays Respect
Paul Matson, CEO of Hull 4 Heroes, expressed his shock and sadness at Martin’s death.
“Martin – a veteran of nine years’ service – has been a part of Hull 4 Heroes since day one, first as a volunteer and then as an employee,” said Matson. “To say he embodied the spirit and values of the charity is an understatement. Martin was the type of person who would drop everything to help anyone and during his time with Hull 4 Heroes, he made a real and positive difference to the lives of many veterans and former military personnel. “He will be greatly missed by us all and we offer our sincere condolences to his family and friends at this incredibly difficult time. We ask the police are given time and space to do their job so justice can be served. We believe that is what Martin would have wanted.”
Police Action and Community Response
- Three women, aged 20, 20 and 21, and two men, aged 27 and 34, arrested on suspicion of murder remain in police custody.
- A 49-year-old woman arrested on suspicion of attempted murder is currently on conditional bail.
Detective Chief Inspector Leanne Murphy said:
“This is a tragic incident and our deepest condolences are with Martin’s family, loved ones, and colleagues. “We’ve made a number of arrests as we continue investigations to establish exactly what happened.” “An increased police presence will be in the area. Anyone with information, no matter how small, is urged to come forward.”
Community Mourns
Emma Hardy, MP for Hull West, recalled her work with Martin on the “Postcards for Veterans” project.
“Martin was great with children, answering their questions about his army experience with honesty and sensitivity. He was a lovely man and I had great admiration and respect for him.”
The community is left heartbroken after the violent loss of a man who gave so much back to those who served. As investigations continue, locals hope justice will soon be served for Martin Chadburn.
