Shoplifter Admits to Killing Asda Security Guard During Alcohol Theft Confrontation in Arbroath
A shoplifter has pleaded guilty to culpable homicide after a former Royal Marine security guard suffered a fatal heart attack during a violent struggle over stolen alcohol at an Asda superstore in Arbroath. The tragic incident, which occurred in June 2024, resulted in the death of 61-year-old Alun Harris-Richards, who was attempting to prevent 38-year-old Natasha Smith from leaving the premises with the illicit goods.
Court Hears Details of Fatal Altercation at Westway Retail Park
At the High Court in Edinburgh on Thursday, Smith admitted to culpable homicide and assaulting another Asda employee during the same altercation. The court was presented with harrowing footage from Mr Harris-Richards' body-worn camera, which captured the entire confrontation. The incident unfolded at the supermarket located in Arbroath's Westway Retail Park in Angus.
During the struggle, Smith was heard shouting obscenities and falsely accusing Mr Harris-Richards of assaulting her. She repeatedly attempted to pull a bag containing the stolen alcohol from his grasp. Witnesses reported her screaming phrases including "you're not allowed to touch me" and "who do you think you are, f****** Hulk?" before the situation escalated dramatically.
Post-Mortem Reveals Underlying Health Condition
Following Mr Harris-Richards' death, a post-mortem examination revealed he had a pre-existing coronary artery condition. Pathologists noted that individuals with this condition are "at risk of sudden death at any time", particularly during periods of illness or extreme stress. The physical exertion and emotional strain of the confrontation likely contributed to the fatal cardiac event.
After Mr Harris-Richards collapsed to the ground, striking his head, Smith continued to struggle violently with two female Asda employees. She grabbed one woman by the neck and threatened: "I will end you." The same employee was subsequently punched in the face and had her hair pulled during the sustained assault.
Prosecution Details Events Leading to Tragedy
Advocate depute Adrian Stalker outlined the sequence of events that led to the fatal incident. Staff members first became suspicious when Smith was observed in the spirits aisle of the supermarket. She proceeded to the self-service checkout area carrying a can of alcohol and bags, but then moved towards the exit, triggering security alarms.
Mr Harris-Richards and another staff member intercepted Smith and took hold of a reusable bag containing two bottles of alcohol. Smith refused to relinquish the bag, leading to the physical confrontation. During the struggle, Mr Harris-Richards' breathing became laboured before he collapsed to the floor, immediately becoming unresponsive.
Despite receiving immediate first aid, CPR, and emergency medical treatment from staff, customers, and paramedics at the scene, all efforts to revive him proved unsuccessful. The court heard that Smith, a repeat offender, had planned to sell the stolen alcohol to a local pub.
Sentencing and Police Response
Judge Lady Haldane has ordered a background report ahead of sentencing scheduled for March, warning Smith that the only possible outcome would be "a significant custodial sentence." Detective Chief Inspector Craig Kelly of Police Scotland commented on the case, stating: "This was a shocking and tragic incident which resulted in the death of a man at his workplace. Aggressive behaviour of this nature is completely unacceptable and can have devastating consequences, as this case has shown."
He added: "Our thoughts remain with Alun's family, friends and colleagues and all those affected by his death." The case highlights the serious risks faced by retail security personnel and the potentially fatal consequences of violent shoplifting incidents.
