Stapleford man denies murder after death crash killed Rams fan
CROWN COURT TRIAL DATE IS SET FOR JUNE 10
A 27-YEAR-OLD man has denied murdering a lifelong Derby County fan by deliberately driving at him in Ilkeston.
Zac Newman entered his plea at Derby Crown Court yesterday.
Over a video link from Nottingham Prison, he also denied wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and attempted wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm against two other men.
Remanding him into custody, Judge Shaun Smith KC reminded him that he will face trial at the same court on June 10.
He said to Newman’s barrister Phil Bradley: “I am not sure if the defence is a complete accident or an intent matter?”
Mr Bradley replied: “He says he was going across the pedestrian area to move away from the area and did not aim at anyone.”
Newman, of The Crescent, Stapleford, is alleged to have murdered Sam Wilson on December 16 last year. Emergency services were called to Ilkeston Market Place shortly after 2am, where the 26-yearold victim had suffered serious injuries and died at the scene.
Two other people were taken to hospital and a van, suspected of being involved in the incident, was recovered the same day.
Sam, of Long Eaton, was a member of the Curzon Football Club and a Rams season ticket holder. A spokesperson for Curzon said: “Sam was one of the most genuine, soft-natured men you would ever wish to meet. He didn’t have a bad bone in his body and would do anything for anyone.
“He will be truly missed by his family, friends and all his teammates.”
Following the incident, Conservative Erewash MP Maggie Throup said: “This is an upsetting situation and I would urge against speculating online as to what has happened. My thoughts and prayers are with those who have been affected.”
In a statement released at the time, Detective Chief Inspector Matt Croome, said: “We have a team of officers working to establish the events of that night, which has included viewing CCTV footage from around the Market Place that night. I would like to thank all those who have come forward and spoken to us as part of our enquiries so far.”
Newman will next appear at the same court on May 24.