Men admit attacking teenager in Ilkeston who later died from injuries
19-year-old Liam Derrett died in hospital two days later
Two men have admitted attacking a teenager in Ilkeston, who died from his injuries in hospital two days later.
19-year-old Liam Derrett was on a night out on June 1st 2025 when a fight broke out in the Market Place.
Witnesses said Liam was not involved in the fight but tried to stop it and urged others to calm down.
CCTV showed how Liam was approached and hit by Kai Donachie. He was then hit by Joshua Harris, causing him to fall to the floor and his his head.
Liam was in a critical condition at Queen's Medical Centre and later died on June 3rd 2025.
Donachie and Harris were then charged with murder, but were issued new charges today in a hearing at Derby Crown Court (30th Nov).
Donachie, (23), of Bilborough Road, Nottingham, admitted affray and Harris, (24), of Little Hallam Lane, Ilkeston, admitted manslaughter.
They have been remanded into custody and will be sentenced December 15th.
Liam's family said he was a ‘ray of sunshine’ who enjoyed snowboarding and who ‘brings amazing energy wherever he goes’.
Detective Chief Inspector Viki Ellis said: “This has been a deeply distressing case for Liam’s family and for everyone affected by his death.
“Whilst today’s guilty pleas cannot undo the pain caused, they will at least spare the family the further ordeal of a lengthy trial.
“This was a senseless and unprovoked attack on an innocent man, who was much loved by his family and popular within the community.
“It is a tragedy that simply should never have happened, and I hope the consequences serve as a reminder of the lasting devastation that violent actions can cause.”