Joshua Moore, 33, fatally punched James 'Jim' McKeown, 62, in Beaumont Park, Leicester, in April 2026, then fled without calling emergency services. Instead, he went home and cancelled a tattoo appointment he had scheduled for the next day.
Attack and Aftermath
McKeown was walking home from a pub when Moore confronted him while riding a quad bike with a young child. After a verbal exchange, Moore punched McKeown in the face, causing him to fall and hit his head on the pavement. Moore placed him in the recovery position but left the scene. McKeown was later found by a member of the public and died from his head injury shortly after.
Guilty Plea
Moore initially arrested for attempted murder, was further arrested for murder after McKeown's death. He pleaded guilty to manslaughter at Leicester Crown Court on July 2, 2026, and will be sentenced on July 31.
Police Condemnation
Detective Inspector Kevin Hames of East Midlands Special Operations Unit said: “Sadly, this is a tragic death that could have been avoided. Moore had a choice that day and should have walked away, without using any violence, Jim posed no threat to him.” Hames added: “The fact that he didn’t make any attempt to contact the emergency services following the incident shows exactly what type of man he is.”
Family Devastation
Hames noted McKeown's family has shown “immense bravery” throughout the investigation. “Moore now faces a lengthy term in prison, and I hope it gives him the opportunity to reflect on his actions,” he said. The community of West Leicester was thanked for their support.
