Murder Investigation Launched After Devoted Family Man Dies Following Pub Assault in Leicestershire
Published 27 December 2025
Highlights
- A murder investigation is underway after David Darke, 66, died following an assault outside The Crown Inn in Appleby Magna, Leicestershire.
- The incident occurred on December 21, and Darke succumbed to his injuries at Queen's Medical Centre in Nottingham on Saturday.
- A 36-year-old man, initially arrested for grievous bodily harm, has been re-arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in custody.
- Darke's family described him as a "devoted family man" and expressed their profound loss in a heartfelt tribute.
- Leicestershire Police continue to seek information from witnesses to aid their investigation.
-
Rewritten Article
Headline: Murder Investigation Launched After Devoted Family Man Dies Following Pub Assault in Leicestershire
A murder investigation has been initiated by Leicestershire Police following the death of 66-year-old David Darke, who suffered a fatal head injury after being punched outside The Crown Inn in Appleby Magna. The incident, which occurred on December 21, led to Darke's death at the Queen's Medical Centre in Nottingham on Saturday.
Incident Details and Investigation
The assault took place on Church Street, Appleby Magna, just before 21:45 GMT. A 36-year-old man, initially detained on suspicion of grievous bodily harm, has now been re-arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in police custody. Detective Inspector Kevin Hames from the East Midlands Special Operation Murder Investigation Team stated that the investigation has involved identifying several witnesses and examining CCTV footage from the area. The suspect is set to be re-interviewed as inquiries continue.
Family Tribute and Community Impact
In a poignant statement, Darke's family paid tribute to him as a "deeply loved father to three daughters and a proud grandfather to three boys." They described him as a "strong, active, intelligent and kind person" with a passion for life, nature, and the outdoors. The family expressed their profound grief, noting that his life was "tragically cut short" and that he will be "sorely missed by all who knew and loved him."
Police Appeal for Information
Leicestershire Police are appealing to the public for any information that could assist in the investigation. They urge anyone who was in the vicinity of Church Street on the evening of the incident and has not yet spoken to officers to come forward. The force emphasizes the importance of community assistance in solving this case.
-
Scenario Analysis
As the investigation progresses, the re-arrest of the suspect on suspicion of murder could lead to formal charges if sufficient evidence is gathered. The case highlights the critical role of witness testimonies and CCTV footage in piecing together the events of that night. Should the suspect be charged, the legal proceedings will likely draw significant public and media attention, given the community's interest and the family's emotional tributes. The outcome of this case may also prompt discussions on public safety measures in local communities, particularly around nightlife venues.
A murder investigation has been initiated by Leicestershire Police following the death of 66-year-old David Darke, who suffered a fatal head injury after being punched outside The Crown Inn in Appleby Magna. The incident, which occurred on December 21, led to Darke's death at the Queen's Medical Centre in Nottingham on Saturday.
Incident Details and Investigation
The assault took place on Church Street, Appleby Magna, just before 21:45 GMT. A 36-year-old man, initially detained on suspicion of grievous bodily harm, has now been re-arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in police custody. Detective Inspector Kevin Hames from the East Midlands Special Operation Murder Investigation Team stated that the investigation has involved identifying several witnesses and examining CCTV footage from the area. The suspect is set to be re-interviewed as inquiries continue.
Family Tribute and Community Impact
In a poignant statement, Darke's family paid tribute to him as a "deeply loved father to three daughters and a proud grandfather to three boys." They described him as a "strong, active, intelligent and kind person" with a passion for life, nature, and the outdoors. The family expressed their profound grief, noting that his life was "tragically cut short" and that he will be "sorely missed by all who knew and loved him."
Police Appeal for Information
Leicestershire Police are appealing to the public for any information that could assist in the investigation. They urge anyone who was in the vicinity of Church Street on the evening of the incident and has not yet spoken to officers to come forward. The force emphasizes the importance of community assistance in solving this case.
What this might mean
As the investigation progresses, the re-arrest of the suspect on suspicion of murder could lead to formal charges if sufficient evidence is gathered. The case highlights the critical role of witness testimonies and CCTV footage in piecing together the events of that night. Should the suspect be charged, the legal proceedings will likely draw significant public and media attention, given the community's interest and the family's emotional tributes. The outcome of this case may also prompt discussions on public safety measures in local communities, particularly around nightlife venues.
