A murder investigation is underway following the death of 66-year-old David Darke, who sustained a fatal head injury after being punched outside The Crown Inn in Appleby Magna, Leicestershire. Emergency services were called to the scene around 9:45 pm on Sunday, December 21st, and Mr. Darke was taken to Queen's Medical Centre in Nottingham, where he later died. Initially, a 36-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm, but he has since been re-arrested on suspicion of murder.
The East Midlands Special Operation Murder Investigation Team is leading the inquiry, with detectives reviewing CCTV footage from the vicinity and interviewing multiple witnesses. The suspect is expected to be questioned further as the investigation progresses. Police are continuing their efforts to gather information and are appealing for anyone who was at The Crown Inn on the evening of the incident and has not yet spoken to them to come forward. Specialist officers are providing support to Mr. Darke's family during this difficult time.