Three jailed for manslaughter in Norwich

Matthew Griggs was attacked in 2023

Matthew Griggs
Author: Shaunna BurnsPublished 3rd Jul 2026

Three men have been sentenced for the manslaughter of Matthew Griggs, following a fatal assault in Norwich.

Johnathan Bristow, aged 46, Daniel Carroll, aged 29, and John McDonnell, aged 44, were found guilty after a four-week trial held earlier this year at Norwich Crown Court.

The incident, which occurred on 19th September 2023, involved Matthew Griggs being attacked multiple times by a group of men on Ketts Hill, leading to his death four days later from injuries including a collapsed lung and haemothorax due to fractured ribs caused by blunt force trauma.

Today, Bristow and McDonnell each received eight-year prison sentences, while Carroll was given seven years, plus an additional three years for an unrelated robbery conviction.

In a statement read in court, Matthew’s father expressed his deep sense of loss, recalling shared moments at Norwich football games and lamenting experiences he will miss with his son.

Detective Inspector Alix Wright, Senior Investigating Officer, commented on the thorough investigation and trial that highlighted the violence Matthew endured.

Inspector Wright noted that the sentencing reflects the gravity of the defendants' actions and aims to provide some justice for Matthew’s family as they continue to navigate their grief.

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