A former sergeant major turned police officer, Paul Ainscough, tragically lost his life following a dispute over chicken wings in a pub in Leyland, Lancashire. The incident occurred on June 22, 2024, when Ainscough was fatally injured after being pushed by his drinking companion, Liam Slack. Two days later, he succumbed to his injuries, which included three broken ribs and internal bleeding.
During a hearing at Preston Crown Court, it was revealed that the two men had been drinking together at various pubs before the altercation at the Stag pub’s beer garden around 19:30. Witnesses recounted that after Ainscough finished his chicken wings, Slack reached for his friend’s food, which sparked a heated argument. Slack’s reaction escalated when he threw Ainscough’s rucksack and pushed him, resulting in a violent fall.
A bystander described the push as sending Ainscough “clean over,” illustrating the force of the incident. Following the altercation, Ainscough attempted to brush off the event, joking about Slack’s drinking. Judge Robert Altham, during the sentencing, noted that Ainscough was a “kind and generous” friend who often lent money to Slack.
After leaving the pub, Slack admitted to pushing Ainscough, expressing regret for his actions. He later conceded to two women in a taxi that he had shoved Ainscough during a disagreement. Unbeknownst to him, this act would have fatal consequences.
Upon returning home that evening, Ainscough informed his partner about the dispute before walking their dogs. The next day, he complained of abdominal pain and requested medical assistance. His partner believed he was simply suffering from a hangover, but upon returning home, she found him unresponsive. Emergency services were summoned, but Ainscough was pronounced dead shortly thereafter.
The court heard that Slack, upon learning of Ainscough’s death, feared he might be responsible. During police questioning, he admitted to the confrontation and later pled guilty to manslaughter. Slack’s sentencing included a prison term of four years and two months, with the judge emphasizing the tragic loss of Ainscough’s life due to a “thoughtless act of violence.”
In delivering the sentence, Judge Altham reflected on Ainscough’s commendable life, highlighting his 24 years of service in the Army and his subsequent tenure in the police force. He described Ainscough as “well regarded” by those who knew him, underscoring the profound impact of his loss on family and friends.
Judge Altham acknowledged Slack’s immediate remorse but noted that his intoxication at the time of the incident served as an aggravating factor. This case serves as a stark reminder of how quickly a friendly outing can turn tragic due to reckless behavior.
