Tributes have been paid to a beloved pub owner who tragically died following a violent altercation in a bar. Matt O'Gara, a director of The Plough in Huddlesford, passed away in hospital three days after being punched at the Ricco and Loren bar on Market Street in Lichfield at 11:25 PM on Sunday.
Arrest and Charges
Billy Allison, 36, from Solihull, was arrested shortly after 5 AM on Monday and has been charged with murder and Section 18 grievous bodily harm with intent. He is scheduled to appear at Stafford Crown Court on Thursday.
Family and Community Mourn
O'Gara's mother expressed her devastation, saying: 'My beautiful son taken away from us so suddenly. Dad and me will never get over this. You were too young to leave us. Forever in our hearts.' His niece Jade added: 'My first best friend and my uncle. I will forever keep saying you were the BEST person.' Another relative shared: 'My beautiful boy forever loved and missed always.'
Councillor Doug Pullen said: 'Like many people across Lichfield, I was deeply saddened to hear of the death of a well-known and much-loved local businessman following the incident in the city centre this weekend. My thoughts are with his family, friends, colleagues, and everyone at The Plough during what will be an incredibly difficult time. Lichfield is a safe and welcoming city with a strong sense of community, which is why news like this is felt so deeply by so many people.'
Police Statement
A Staffordshire Police spokesman stated: 'We were called to the Ricco and Loren bar on Market Street at 11:25 PM on Sunday (24 May) following reports that two men had been punched. Sadly, one of the men, who was seriously injured, died in hospital this afternoon. His family are being supported by specialist officers at this tragic time. The second victim was also taken to hospital but has since been discharged.'
