A man, believed to be intoxicated, reportedly killed his girlfriend’s brother at a family celebration by intentionally running him over after issuing threats at the event, according to court proceedings.
Stephen Bates, described as visibly drunk and swaying, attended his girlfriend Susanne Lewzey’s mother’s 70th birthday party on April 18. During the gathering in Woolton, Liverpool, Bates encountered Martin O’Donovan for the first time, initially showing interest before a physical altercation ensued between them.
Allegations state that Bates, aged 42, threatened the 47-year-old victim with harm before being taken home and seemingly calming down. However, he later returned to the scene in his Ford Fiesta and purposefully struck Mr. O’Donovan with the vehicle, resulting in the tragic incident, as per reports from Liverpool Crown Court.
Testimony revealed that Bates had consumed a mix of alcoholic beverages at the party, including Jagerbombs, Stella Artois, Red Bull, and vodka. Natalie O’Donovan, one of the victim’s sisters, testified that Bates had been drinking heavily for hours.
Ms. O’Donovan shared that the evening started well but became uncomfortable when Bates’ behavior around her teenage children escalated, prompting her sister to relocate him to the living room. Shortly after, a physical altercation erupted between Bates and Mr. O’Donovan.
Following the scuffle, Bates reportedly refused to leave, making threatening remarks towards Martin while attempting to enter his car despite his intoxicated state. Ms. O’Donovan recounted trying to reason with Bates on the ride home, where he continued making threats towards her brother.
Upon arriving near Bates’ home, the situation quickly escalated. Bates, still in the passenger seat of the vehicle, abruptly sped away after Ms. O’Donovan attempted to calm him down. The tragic outcome led to Mr. O’Donovan becoming trapped under the car, resulting in fatal head injuries and his subsequent passing in the hospital.
Bates has denied the charge of murder but admitted to manslaughter. The trial is ongoing.
