Date Set For Ex-Royal Navy Officer Murder Trial

A man accused of murdering a former Royal Navy officer with his own car has had a date set for trial.

Ryan Gibbons, 29, who spoke only to confirm his name for the brief hearing at Manchester Crown Court, is accused of the murder of 35-year-old Mike Samwell, in Chorlton, Manchester on April 23.

A date has been set for October 16, estimated to last 10 days.

The defendant Mr Gibbons has not yet entered any pleas.

He was charged with murder after the death of Mr Samwell at his home in the early hours of April 23.

It is believed the victim was run over after he tried to stop thieves stealing his Audi S3 car, following his home being broke into while he and his wife were asleep.

Mr Samwell, who served 12 years in the Royal Navy, was taken to hospital for treatment but died a short time later.

Gibbons is also charged with burglary and aggravated taking a vehicle without consent.

A 15-year-old boy from South Manchester was arrested on suspicion of murder and burglary and has been bailed pending further inquiries.

Two men aged 20 and 21, who were arrested on suspicion of murder and burglary, have also been bailed pending further inquiries.