A male model, under the influence of alcohol, was fatally attacked by a stranger in a manner described by prosecutors as “sudden, quick, and brutal,” leaving him defenseless.
According to a BBC court report, 36-year-old Luke Harden was attending a Halloween celebration in Bacup, a small town in northwest England, when he encountered 26-year-old Bhekisani Matabiswana, a stranger who was also leaving the event.
Prosecutor Nicholas Rhodes revealed to the jury that Harden was intoxicated and likely under the influence of cocaine and ketamine, rendering him unsteady and unable to defend himself.
Moments before midnight, witnesses observed Harden erratically throwing objects in the street and engaging in a verbal exchange with Matabiswana’s girlfriend as she attempted to secure a taxi, the court heard.
Matabiswana then reportedly attacked Harden, knocking him to the ground, and proceeded to stamp and kick him in the head, according to testimony presented to the jury.
The attack, lasting under a minute, was characterized by its sheer speed and brutality, leaving Harden with no opportunity to protect himself, the jury was informed.
Harden suffered catastrophic brain injuries, with a swollen skull, extensive facial bruising, fractured nose and jaw as well as bruised upper body — with the injuries so extensive it was impossible to work out exactly which wound killed him, the trial was told.
Matabiswana used Harden’s phone to contact his friends, and claimed Harden fell in front of him and couldn’t breathe, the trial heard.
However, the suspect had blood spattered on his clothing and injured knuckles from the brutal attack, prosecutors said.
Matabiswana also sent texts saying that he’d “beat someone up for trying to rape some girl” and that the man “died,” while also saying he might “make a run for it,” the trial heard.
The suspected murderer was busted days later as he headed to Manchester airport, seemingly planning to flee the country, the trial heard.
Matabiswana’s defense claims he acted in self-defense, alleging Harden had tried to grab his girlfriend. Prosecutors argue the victim was in no condition to pose a real threat.
Matabiswana has denied murder. His trial continues.
