The family of a father-of-two who died after an altercation outside a pub in Stretford are still in search of answers almost four years after the incident.

Gavin Brown died of brain damage due to a cardiac arrest eight days after a member of the public put him in a six-minute, MMA-style chokehold outside The Melville on Barton Road.

A number of people were arrested and investigated at the time, although the Crown Prosecution Service said there was not enough evidence to make charges of murder or manslaughter.

At the end of a two-week inquest at Stockport Coroner's Court, overseen by coroner Andrew Bridgman, a jury came to a conclusion of unlawful killing.

In light of the conclusion of unlawful killing, Mr Bridgman made a referral to Greater Manchester Police for a review, who in turn made a referral to the Crown Prosecution Service for a reconsideration.

But in October 2022, it again said there was not enough evidence, an outcome with which Mr Brown's loved ones 'cannot come to terms'.

Messenger Newspapers: Gavin BrownGavin Brown (Image: Family)

In a statement, the family of the father-of-two said: "It has been nearly four years since we lost Gavin, and we are still fighting for justice. 

"The decision by the CPS not to prosecute those responsible for Gavin’s death is devastating, and something we cannot come to terms with. We refuse to give up on our pursuit for truth and accountability."

At the end of last year, Mr Brown's loved ones applied for a Victims' Right to Review.

A decision is due in spring, according to Broudie Jackson Canter, the family's solicitors.

The firm's Lucie Boase said: "The decision by the CPS not to take further action against the individuals whose actions and inactions precipitated Gavin’s death is hugely disappointing. It appears to send the message that people can act with impunity, without fear of punishment by the law. 

"A prosecution in this case is crucial in upholding public confidence in the criminal justice system and this has informed the family’s decision to seek a Victims’ Right to Review." 


This article was written by Jack Tooth. Jack is the reporter for The Messenger and covers anything and everything from within the Metropolitan Borough of Trafford.

To contact him, email jack.tooth@newsquest.co.uk or follow @JTRTooth on Twitter.