Tragic Death After Devizes Street Assault
Wayne Sheppard, 44, known as Bert, died in hospital six days after a brutal punch in New Park Street, Devizes, in July 2022.
Assailant Found Guilty
Darren John Fell, 39, from Hewitt Court, was convicted at Winchester Crown Court for the attack. Fell punched Mr Sheppard after a brief argument, causing him to fall and suffer a fatal head injury.
One Punch That Killed
Emergency services were called on July 2 after Mr Sheppard suffered a serious head injury. Hospital tests confirmed it was an assault. Police acted fast, gathering CCTV footage and witness reports. Fell was arrested and charged with grievous bodily harm (GBH).
Detective Chief Inspector Phil Walker said: “Wayne was a popular and well-known figure in this tight-knit community. His death shocked everyone who knew him.”
“Our investigation revealed that Fell struck Wayne to the face after a brief verbal exchange, causing him to fall and hit his head on concrete. Wayne suffered a severe brain injury he couldn’t recover from.”
“Wayne was not a threat to anyone and Fell showed no remorse. This tragic case proves that one punch can kill. I urge everyone to think twice before resorting to violence.”
“My thoughts are with Wayne’s family and friends at this heartbreaking time.”
Family Pay Tribute to ‘Kind-Hearted Bert’
Wayne’s family remembered him as a “happy-go-lucky man with a kind nature.” His parents, Sandy and Pete, said:
“He was really well known and very well liked in Devizes. He was always out and about so everyone knew who he was and he’d help anyone. He was such a kind person.”
Darren Fell faces sentencing on July 31. The community hopes justice will bring some closure to this tragic loss.
