Man Jailed for Killing Bystander in Chaotic Pub Brawl
Seven Years Behind Bars for Fatal Punch
Kieran Egan, 31, from Birmingham, has been sentenced to seven years in prison after admitting manslaughter. The violent clash outside The Dolphin and Anchor pub in Chichester on June 20, 2024, ended tragically with the death of innocent bystander David Hallett, 57.
Violent Night Spirals Out of Control
The court heard David was enjoying an evening out with colleagues when tensions flared between a group of men, including Egan and another man, Dyce Barnfield, 32, also from Birmingham. A third man, Daniel Inns, 43, who had earlier been thrown out of the pub for aggressive behaviour, was involved too.
Just before 11pm, a fight erupted outside the pub. David, trying to calm the chaos, was brutally punched by Egan. Despite desperate efforts by police and paramedics, David was pronounced dead at the scene.
Legal Aftermath and Family Reaction
- Egan was initially charged with murder but later pleaded guilty to manslaughter.
- Barnfield was found not guilty of both murder and manslaughter.
- Inns received a suspended 10-month sentence for affray.
David’s family expressed disappointment at the sentence but thanked police and emergency workers for their efforts. “We are disappointed with the sentence, particularly in respect of Egan given the level of violence he displayed,” they said. “Our thanks go to all who tried to save David and helped in the investigation.”
Police Praise Swift Arrest
Detective Constable Elliott Lander from the Major Crime Unit said: “What should have been a normal night out turned fatal because of Egan’s violent behaviour. David was attacked without any chance to defend himself.”
He added: “Egan was arrested within a minute of the fatal punch thanks to a quick-thinking officer. This complex investigation has now reached justice.”
