Man who murdered 20-year-old after night out in Cornwall dies in prison
Damien Bendelow was stabbed six times during a late-night attack at a car park in Liskeard
Last updated 5th May 2021
The man who murdered a 20-year-old after a night out in Liskeard has died in prison.
Damien Bendelow was stabbed six times in the town's Cattle Market Car Park, following an altercation.
He was rushed to hospital with serious injuries back in January 2020, but died shortly afterwards.
A trial at Truro Crown Court heard Carl Smythe carried out the attack after having punched Damien at a local pub earlier in the evening.
The 46-year-old, formerly of Varley Lane in Liskeard, was jailed for life last summer, to serve a minimum sentence of 21 years before being eligible for parole.
At the time of Smythe's sentencing, Devon and Cornwall Police described the murder as a senseless loss of life.
“We welcome the verdict and sentence today of Carl Smythe, whom will now face life in prison having killed a young man at the start of his adult life.
“The murder of Damien in the early hours of 26 January has left his family and friends devastated at the senseless loss of life, and the town of Liskeard shocked at what has happened. Damien’s family have conducted themselves with dignity from the very start and through the trial process, and I really do hope that this provides some closure for them.
“Carl Smythe was prepared to use a weapon in what was a few moments of extreme violence that ended Damien’s life – something he has not shown any remorse for. This case provides a very real warning to those prepared to carry and use a knife that, if you do so, you can expect the full weight of the law to be used to keep the wider population safe".
Detective Inspector Steve Hambly
At the time of Damien Bendelow's death, his family released an emotional tribute describing him as a 'lovable cheeky chap'.
"We are all as a family absolutely devastated Damien was murdered. He has been taken away from us.
"Twenty years of love and life gone in twenty seconds.
"He was such a lovable cheeky chap and loved by everyone and the community.
"It has left a massive hole in our hearts and all we can hope for now is getting justice for Damien.
"Sleep tight pidge rest in peace love Dad, Mum, Grace, Richard and all the siblings".
Family Tribute
In a short statement, The Ministry of Justice confirmed Smythe died at HMP Manchester on Wednesday 4th May.
"HMP Manchester prisoner Carl Smythe died in prison on 4th May. The Prisons and Probation Ombudsman has been informed".
No further information has been provided regarding the circumstances of Smythe's death.