A Solihull man appeared in court this morning, Wednesday, May 27, accused of murdering a much-loved Midland pub boss. Billy Allison, 36, was charged after Matt O'Gara died following an attack at the Ricco and Loren bar in Market Street, Lichfield, on Sunday night, May 24. He died in hospital yesterday afternoon, Tuesday, May 26.
Court Appearance
Staffordshire Police officers were called at 11.25pm on Sunday following reports two men had been punched. The second victim, named in court as Adam Cooper, was also taken to hospital and later discharged. Allison was arrested just after 5am on Monday, May 26. He was charged with murder and Section 18 causing grievous bodily harm with intent and appeared at North Staffordshire Justice Centre in Stoke-on-Trent. He spoke only to confirm his name and date of birth.
A legal advisor read the charges that he stands accused of murdering Mr O'Gara and Section 18 grievous bodily harm with intent against Mr Cooper. Lead magistrate Mark Bargna told Allison: 'This is a matter that can only be sent to Stafford Crown Court. You will appear there either by video link or in person tomorrow.' He was remanded into custody at HMP Dovegate and was due to appear before a judge at Stafford Crown Court on Thursday, May 28.
Wearing a grey t-shirt and trousers, bald Allison, who sports a beard, appeared emotional in the dock. A loved one blew him a kiss from the public gallery as he left the dock to walk back to the court cells.
Victim and Community Reaction
Mr O'Gara was a director of The Plough pub in the village of Huddlesford, near Lichfield. It remained closed today in response to what it called 'very sad news involving one of our business partners.' The owners of Ricco and Loren bar posted a message on their Facebook page: 'As a small local family business, we are devastated by the events of the last few days. We have been working closely with the police in this matter, and we will continue to do so throughout this incredibly sad and difficult time. We are sending all our love, thoughts, and best wishes to everyone affected, we will be closed for a few days to give our staff some time, thank you.'
Police urged anyone with information to contact them via an online portal or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
