A man has been charged with murder following a fatal assault at The Dolphin and Anchor pub in West Street, Chichester, on Thursday night.
Officers were called to the scene at approximately 11 pm after receiving reports of an assault. A 57-year-old man from South Yorkshire sustained severe head injuries. Despite the prompt response and efforts of police and paramedics, he was tragically pronounced dead at the scene.
The victim’s next of kin have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers.
Kieran Egan, 30, of Baldmoor Lake Road in Birmingham, was arrested at the scene and has been charged with murder. He remains in custody and is scheduled to appear before Crawley Magistrates’ Court on Monday, June 24.
Additionally, a 42-year-old man from County Durham was arrested on suspicion of affray. He has been released on conditional bail. Police have identified a third suspect involved in the affray and are actively working to bring him into custody.
Detective Chief Inspector Suzanne Joseph, from the Surrey and Sussex Major Crime Team, expressed condolences to the victim’s family and loved ones, stating: “Our thoughts remain with the family and loved ones of the victim in this investigation, who has lost his life in such tragic circumstances.”
DCI Joseph also made a public appeal for information: “We are continuing to appeal for information to build a clear picture of the events of that evening. If you saw what happened, or if you captured any relevant mobile or CCTV footage, you can upload it directly to our Major Incident Public Portal, under Operation Arunside – https://mipp.police.uk/operation/4724F74-PO2.”
For those who wish to report information anonymously, DCI Joseph advised: “You can report online, via 101, or anonymously via the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or www.crimestoppers-uk.org.”
As the investigation continues, police presence in the area remains heightened, providing reassurance to the local community and seeking further witnesses to the incident.
