Swindon man murdered uncle in 'vicious, unprovoked assault'

Grant Walker, 32, of Faringdon Road, was today (Friday) found guilty of the murder of Terry Ricketts, 53, a five-day trial at Bristol Crown Court.

Walker was at Mr Ricketts' home in Westbourne Court on February 25 when he put him in a headlock and banged his head against a wall repeatedly.

Mr Ricketts went into cardiac arrest and despite the best efforts of the emergency services, he was declared dead at the scene.

Police in Westbourne Court in February (Image: Wiltshire Police)

Walker fled the Rodbourne property but was found by officers the following morning and arrested, later being charged with murder and remanded in custody.

In the police interview, Walker admitted grabbing his uncle and assaulting him after Mr Ricketts had come up behind him unexpectedly - but denied intending to kill him or cause him grievous bodily harm.

Senior Investigating Officer Detective Inspector Debbie Hatch said: “First and foremost, my condolences go out to Terry’s family and loved ones.

“I’d like to thank them for their support and co-operation throughout this investigation and I hope this guilty verdict will bring an element of closure.

“On the evening in question, Terry should have been safe in his home enjoying an evening with his family, but was instead subjected to a vicious and violent unprovoked assault by his nephew which has sadly resulted in him losing his life.

“Terry was clearly a much-loved member of a family who will be forever missed.

“I’d also like to thank all the officers who responded to the incident and who have assisted with the investigation since, which has led to this conviction.”

Police in Westbourne Court in February (Image: Wiltshire Police)

In the days that followed Mr Ricketts' death, he was described by his daughter Kayleigh as a "devoted husband and a good friend to everyone".

She added: "He was a lovely man who would do anything for anyone.

"He was the best dad to me and my brother Kyle and the best grandad to his six grandchildren, Nevaeh, Theo, Aaliyah, Keira-Leigh, Kai, Kylah-Rae.

"He loved his fishing and his music, he loved his films, especially Band of Brothers, loved doing DIY stuff and teaching others how to do stuff."

Others posted their own reaction and tributes to Terry's death on social media, with one saying he will be "forever a legend".

They posted: “R.I.P – Terry Ricketts what a loss. Thinking of your family forever a legend.”

Walker will remain in custody until his sentencing on October 4.