Pathologist Outlines Fatal Injuries in Sheppey Murder Case
A forensic pathologist has provided detailed evidence regarding the likely cause of death for a man allegedly murdered by three teenagers on the Isle of Sheppey. The trial, taking place at Woolwich Crown Court, centres on the death of 49-year-old Alexander Cashford in Leysdown-on-Sea, Kent, on August 10 last year.
Alleged Attack and Fatal Injuries
Prosecutors allege that Mr Cashford was chased and struck with rocks and a bottle during the incident. Dr Anna Biddlestone, the forensic pathologist who conducted the post-mortem examination, told jurors that Mr Cashford sustained more than thirty external injuries, including bruising, grazes, and cuts. She identified chest injuries, specifically fractured ribs that punctured his lung, as the most probable mechanism leading to his death, alongside pre-existing ischaemic heart disease.
Dr Biddlestone noted the presence of at least 500 millilitres of blood in Mr Cashford's left chest cavity. She emphasised that the pattern of rib fractures, all located on one side, was extremely uncommon to result from resuscitation efforts and was far more likely due to inflicted trauma from an assault. Additionally, injuries were found in protected sites, such as his neck and the bones near his eyes, areas unlikely to be impacted in a simple fall.
Context of the Alleged Incident
The court has heard that Mr Cashford met a 16-year-old girl at an amusement arcade on August 8, exchanging contact details. Using the pseudonym Sienna, the girl and two teenage boys, aged 15 and 16, arranged to meet him by the sea wall two days later. Prosecutors state that during this meeting, the girl and Mr Cashford walked along the seafront while the two boys followed. A video recording from the 16-year-old boy's phone, allegedly filmed by the girl, captures her shouting derogatory remarks.
Mr Cashford, who had a history of heart issues including a previous heart attack and a fitted stent, was found lying face down in mud. The three teenagers are on trial for his murder. The 16-year-old boy has pleaded guilty to a secondary charge of manslaughter, while the girl and the 15-year-old boy deny manslaughter. All three defendants have entered not guilty pleas to the murder charge.
Ongoing Legal Proceedings
The trial at Woolwich Crown Court continues, with the pathologist's testimony forming a crucial part of the prosecution's case. The detailed medical evidence underscores the severity of the alleged assault and its contribution to Mr Cashford's death. The court will continue to examine the circumstances surrounding this tragic incident in Kent.
