Kevin Horswill, from Magdalen Green in Essex, was convicted of murder after fatally assaulting Richard Langley in March 2024. The attack followed a heated altercation between the two men earlier that evening at The Star pub in Mill End.
The events unfolded on March 17, 2024, when 52-year-old Richard Langley and Horswill became involved in a confrontation at the pub. Richard left the establishment later that evening, but CCTV footage later captured him walking his dog around the village. About 20 minutes later, Horswill was seen walking along the same route.
The footage then shows the two men meeting in the garden of Richard’s home in Orchard Close, where Horswill launched a brutal attack. Shortly after, Horswill was seen leaving the scene with serious head injuries, while witnesses reported hearing the assault. Members of the public performed CPR on Richard until paramedics arrived, but he sadly died from his injuries.
Horswill was arrested in the early hours of March 18, after receiving hospital treatment for his injuries. He was charged with murder and remanded in custody.
During his trial at Chelmsford Crown Court, Horswill attempted to claim he acted in self-defense. However, the jury rejected his defense, and on January 28, 2025, he was convicted of murder by a majority verdict.
Detective Superintendent Ant Alcock praised the investigation, highlighting the role of extensive CCTV footage and forensic evidence. “This was a violent and premeditated attack, spurred on by a previous argument at the pub,” said Alcock. “Horswill’s claim of self-defense was thoroughly disproven by our investigators, leaving the jury in no doubt of his guilt.”
Alcock also extended condolences to Richard’s family and thanked the officers involved for their dedication to the case. “The strength of this case was built on the tireless efforts of dozens of officers, and we now await sentencing,” he added.
Horswill will remain in custody until his sentencing on January 29, 2025.
