Sunderland fan Lewis MacLeod cleared of manslaughter after one-punch death in London | OneFootball

Sunderland fan Lewis MacLeod, 36, has been acquitted of manslaughter after a single punch left Michael Edwards, 43, fatally injured in central London.

According to Sunderland Echo, a jury at Inner London Crown Court cleared him after he said he struck in self-defence because he felt scared and terrified.

He had travelled south for Sunderland’s Premier League match at Crystal Palace and spent hours drinking with friend David Jackson. Mr Edwards, from Warwickshire, was out with James Roberts. The court heard evidence both men had used cocaine.

Shortly before two am on September 13, both groups were at Belushi's on Borough High Street. MacLeod and Jackson were asked to leave, and outside CCTV showed him attempting to shake hands then touching Mr Edwards's groin. Mr Edwards and Mr Roberts followed them to a nearby Food and Wine store.

MacLeod punched Mr Edwards, who fell and struck his head on the pavement. He died in hospital four days later. MacLeod said he feared serious harm from the pair and threw a defensive blow.

He admitted assault causing actual bodily harm against Mr Roberts, having punched him as he checked on Mr Edwards. After the verdict he said he was devastated. MacLeod has been bailed ahead of sentencing in June for the assault, while Mr Roberts denies affray and awaits trial. MacLeod also admitted taking more cocaine after the fight and said he struggled to recall details when arrested.

Source: Sunderland Echo