Man Denies Responsibility For Death Of Ex-Royal Navy Officer

A man has admitted burgling the home of an ex-Royal Navy officer, but denied being responsible for his death.

Ryan Gibbons, 29, also admitted aggravated vehicle taking over Mike Samwell's Audi S3 car, which was taken from outside his house in south Manchester earlier this year.

Mr Samwell was injured as he tried to prevent his car from being taken in the early hours on April 23rd when it is believed that he was hit by the vehicle.

Mr Samwell, who had served 12 years in the Royal Navy, died in hospital from his injuries.

Gibbons, of Steven Court, Chorlton, denies the murder and an alternative count of manslaughter relating to Mr Samwell's death.

Co-accused Raymond Davies, 21, of Castlefield Walk, Manchester, also admitted a count of burglary but denies manslaughter and aggravated vehicle taking without consent.

A third defendant, Stacey Hughes, 28, of Steven Court, Chorlton, denies assisting an offender.

Gibbons entered his pleas at the start of the three defendants' trial, as a jury of seven men and five women were empanelled to hear the case at Manchester Crown Court.

Trial judge Mr Justice William Davis told jurors the trial may last up to four weeks.

He told them both male defendants admit involvement in the burglary and they will have to decide to what extent, if any, the men are responsible for the death.

The trial was adjourned until tomorrow morning when Alistair Webster QC will formally open the case for the prosecution.