A man has been jailed for 12 and a half years after killing his uncle in a “vicious and unprovoked” attack.
Grant Walker, 32, of Faringdon Road, Swindon, had previously been found guilty of the murder of Terry Ricketts, 53.
Walker assaulted Mr Ricketts at his home in Westbourne Court, Swindon, in Febraury, putting him in a headlock and repeatedly smashing his head against a wall before he died.
Senior investigating officer Det Insp Debbie Hatch said she hoped the sentencing at Bristol Crown Court could bring “some form of closure” for the family of Mr Ricketts.
Wiltshire PoliceMr Ricketts’ widow, who witnessed the events, told the court they had all enjoyed a pleasant evening together, but the mood changed shortly after midnight.
Mr Ricketts had left the room briefly to use the toilet, and upon his return, allegedly grabbed Walker from behind “without warning”.
In response, Walker’s “automatic reaction” was to throw him forward against a wall before smashing his head at least twice against a wall and leaving him collapsed on the floor.
Mr Ricketts went into cardiac arrest and was later declared dead at the scene by paramedics.
Walker then left the premises, allegedly fearing an argument would ensue once his uncle “came to”.
He was subsequently charged with murder.
Det Insp Hatch said: “This has been an awful experience for Terry’s family and, while nothing can bring him back, I hope today’s sentencing can bring some form of closure for them.
“I’d like to thank them again for their patience and support with the investigation, which has culminated with this sentence.
“I would also like to commend and thank all the officers who have been involved in this incident since the terrible night when Terry was murdered – their hard work has been vital in bringing about this sentence.”
