Ryan Burton’s killers sentenced for murder in Kettering
Two given life imprisonment over brutal attack
Two men have been sentenced to life imprisonment for the murder of Ryan Burton, who died after being brutally assaulted at Spring Rise Park on Kettering’s Highfield Estate in January.
Keiton Underwood, 20, of Bridge Street, Desborough, and Ace Hill, 19, of Minden Close, Corby, received minimum sentences of 24 years and 21 years respectively before being eligible for parole. They will remain on licence for life after release.
Ryan Burton, aged 43, was attacked shortly before 7 pm on 10th January. He sustained severe injuries and died on 16th January at University Hospital Coventry after contracting sepsis following multiple operations and several days in a coma.
During the sentencing hearing on 22nd December, his mother, Diane Burton, shared a powerful victim impact statement and expressed her devastation and grief over losing her son.
In her statement, Diane said, “I struggle to accept how a group of human beings can act the way those boys did. They were like a pack of hounds. Ryan had no chance to defend himself."
She recalled staying at her son’s side for six days, watching him deteriorate. “I had to say my goodbyes to my son...When his chest stopped rising and falling that night, a part of me died.”
Her statement reflected the profound impact of Ryan’s death not only on her family but on the families of the convicted men. While acknowledging that they will eventually be released, she remarked, “Ryan will never come back, and his final moments of terror will always play over in my mind."
Other individuals also received sentences during the hearing:
Cameron Williams-Ferguson, 24, of High Street, Kettering, was sentenced to eight years in prison for manslaughter.
Kyle Derek McSkimming, 23, of Pen Green Lane, Corby, received seven years and 10 months for manslaughter.
Connor White, 25, of Spencer Street, Rothwell, was jailed for 43 months for a separate robbery committed with Underwood.
A 17-year-old, unnamed for legal reasons, received a six-month youth referral order for possession of an offensive weapon at a previous hearing.
Detective Sergeant Richard Doyle said: "This tragic case is a stark reminder of the devastating impact violent crime can have on families and communities. Our thoughts remain with Ryan’s family during this time."
To learn about knife crime prevention and support available in relation to violent offences, visit here .