One-punch killer sentenced to six years
The victim was hospitalised with a serious head injury, but never regained consciousness
Last updated 17th Jul 2026
A man who followed two strangers and killed one of them with one punch has received a six-year sentence.
Ashley McMillan, 32, of Oundle Road, Peterborough, punched 63-year-old John McGarry in the early hours of 30 August 2025, before leaving the scene.
Mr McGarry was found on the ground by security staff, and was taken to hospital with a serious head injury.
He never regained consciousness and died months later, on 12 December.
McGarry had been trying to defend another man McMillan had punched, by throwing his arm out before walking away.
Despite Mr McGarry walking away, McMillan followed him and delivered the eventually-fatal punch.
McMillan was initially charged with assault occasioning grievous bodily harm (GBH) with intent - upgraded to a charge of murder following Mr McGarry’s death.
At a Peterborough Crown Court hearing on 25 June, McMillan pleaded guilty to a lesser charge of manslaughter.
He was sentenced at Peterborough Crown Court today (17 July) where he was jailed for six years.
DCI Matt Inwood said: “This was a senseless act of violence that has robbed a family of a much-loved relative and left those closest to him facing an unimaginable loss."