Man jailed for 12 years for murdering his uncle in unprovoked attack

Grant Walker put Terry Ricketts in a headlock and struck his head against a wall a number of times

A man found guilty of murdering his uncle by repeatedly smashing his head against a wall, has been sentenced to life imprisonment, with a minimum of 12-and-a-half years. On August 16 a jury concluded that Grant Walker, 32, was guilty of the murder of his uncle Terry Ricketts, 53, following a five-day trial at Bristol Crown Court.

Walker, 32, of Faringdon Road, Swindon, appeared at Bristol Crown Court on October 4, for sentencing after being found guilty of murder. Walker is said to have, on February 25 this year, seriously assaulted Terry, putting him in a headlock and striking his head against a wall a number of times in an unprovoked assault.

The incident happened in inside Terry’s home, and he went into cardiac arrest and despite the best efforts of the emergency services, was sadly declared dead at the scene. Walker left the scene but was located by officers the following morning and arrested and he was subsequently charged with murder and remanded in custody.

Senior Investigating Officer Detective Inspector Debbie Hatch said: “This has been an awful experience for Terry’s family and, while nothing can bring him back, I hope today’s sentencing can bring some form of closure for them.

“I’d like to thank them again for their patience and support with the investigation, which has culminated with this sentence.

“I would also like to commend and thank all the officers who have been involved in this incident since the terrible night when Terry was murdered – their hard work has been vital in bringing about this sentence.”