Castleford drug dealer starting 13 year sentence after killing man on night out

Dylan Maxwell was jailed for manslaughter and drug offences

Dylan Maxwell
Author: Matt SoanesPublished 23rd Jun 2026

A Castleford man is starting a 13 year 10 month prison term, for drug dealing and for killing a man on a night out in Pontefract.

28 year old Dylan Maxwell, of Wood View Avenue, repeatedly punched 25 year old Luke Thompson during an assault on Front Street on November 19 2023.

Luke suffered fatal head injuries and was pronounced dead in hospital 10 days later.

Maxwell fled the scene but was arrested days later.

During trial he claim self-defence, an explanation which was rejected by a jury at Leeds Crown Court jury.

He was convicted of manslaughter.

Maxwell received 11 years for manslaughter and an additional consecutive sentence of two years and 10 months for possession of cocaine with intent to supply.

Detective Chief Inspector James Entwistle of West Yorkshire Police said: “My thoughts remain with Luke Thompson’s friends and loved ones."

"I hope today’s sentence provides some small comfort to them as they move forward with their lives following their devastating loss.

"This is a tragic case that shows just how quickly a night out can turn into tragedy. Too often we see situations escalate through alcohol, frustration or split-second decisions, with devastating consequences for everyone involved.

"At a busy time of year for nightlife, I would urge people to take a moment, walk away from confrontation and think about the lasting impact of their actions. No argument is worth a life.”

Hear all the latest news from across the UK on the hour, every hour, on Greatest Hits Radio on DAB, smartspeaker, at greatesthitsradio.co.uk, and on the Rayo app.