Bouncer convicted of manslaughter after punching man outside Birmingham bar
Richard Deakin will be sentenced on 2 October 2026
Last updated 17th Jul 2026
A door steward who killed a man outside a Birmingham bar after throwing a single punch has been convicted of manslaughter.
Joshua Johnson-Hector sustained a serious head injury in Bristol Street in the early hours of 28 December after being attacked by Richard Deakin outside Savanna.
Deakin, aged 38, from, Moorfield Drive, Halesowen, was found guilty of manslaughter following a two week trial which took place at Birmingham Crown Court.
Paramedics were called to attend to 31-year-old Johnson-Hector who was in and out of consciousness following the assault. He was taken to hospital where he died.
Detectives carried out CCTV enquiries which showed Mr Johnson-Hector approach the door of the Savanna.
Footage showed Deakin punch Mr Johnson-Hector once causing him to fall to the floor backwards where he struck his head on the pavement and remained motionless.
CCTV showed Deakin put Mr Johnson-Hector on his side before a vehicle pulled up and he then left the location.
Officers later tracked the vehicle to his address where he was arrested.
During interview Deakin claimed he struck Mr Johnson-Hector as he felt threatened but there was no evidence to suggest this was the case.
Speaking after the conviction Mr Johnson-Hector’s heartbroken family released a statement which said: “We are truly grateful for the partial justice serve on behalf of a much-loved son, brother, uncle and friend, Joshua Johnson-Hector.
“He was totally innocent, assaulted by someone who should not be involved in the security industry at all. Deakin committed a callous criminal act that killed Joshua and devastated our lives.
“The guilty verdict is the first step to seeing true justice served. As Joshua's family, we would also like to thank the jury and Crown Prosecution Service for hearing and representing Joshua, the Police and Liaison Service for taking care of us and delivering the justice Joshua deserves.
“Joshua was certified security staff, an avid community leader whose life was stolen by a steward for inconceivable reasons but we are pleased the truth prevailed in this trial."
Detective Inspector Nigel Box, who led the investigation, added: “This is a really tragic case where a man has lost his life due to Deakin’s mindless actions. It was a needless loss of life.
“Mr Johnson-Hector was much loved by his family and our thoughts go out to them. I hope this conviction helps to bring them some comfort as they continue to come to terms with their loss.”