Man jailed for life for 'brutal' murder of friend

A man has been jailed for life after an attack on another man caused fatal injuries.

Darren Hanson, 46, assaulted Jay Lucas at Hanson's home in Epsom, Surrey.

He later admitted fighting him, but claimed it had been in self-defence. He was found guilty of murder after a trial at Chichester Crown Court, and will serve a minimum of 19 years.

His Honour Judge Antony Donne said the attack was "truly brutal", according to Surrey Police.

Police were called to Hanson's address by paramedics on 7 February 2024, after Hanson had called for an ambulance.

Despite efforts to revive him, 47-year-old Mr Lucas died at the scene.

Hanson gave a statement to police, saying he had been extremely drunk and on drugs at the time of the attack, claiming to be devastated by Mr Lucas' death.

A post-mortem examination found the cause of death to be a severe assault to his head.

Det Ch Insp Craig Emmerson said: "These men had known each other for several years and often socialised, but it remains unknown why Hanson attacked his friend with such ferocity at his home in February last year.

"During trial, Hanson claimed he had been acting in self-defence, whilst also seeking to lay the blame for his behaviour on others.

"The level of injury inflicted was devastating and sadly gave Jason no chance of survival."

In a statement, Mr Lucas' family said: "We cannot comprehend the loss of Jason. There are no words that will ever express how we feel as a family and how this has impacted our everyday lives and will continue to do so.

"Jason was a popular person with lots of friends, he couldn't walk anywhere without someone shouting hello to him. He was a loving person full of laughter.

"Jason was a much-loved son, nephew, cousin, dad, and granddad. Jason is sorely missed by everyone, and he will never be forgotten."

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