Two men convicted over Tobias Bruce murder in Littlemore
It's after an Oxford Crown Court trial
Two men have been convicted in connection with the murder of Tobias Bruce in Littlemore, Oxford.
Ryan Byrne, aged 35, of Hathaway Green Lane, Stratford-upon-Avon, and George Stephens, aged 28, of no fixed abode, were both found guilty by unanimous jury verdict of one count each of murder and section 18 grievous bodily harm with intent.
The convictions relate to the death of Tobias Bruce, a 32-year-old man from Oxford and the wounding of his friend, another man who was aged 28 at the time.
It was in February when George Stephens, Ryan Byrne and another man travelled from Birmingham and Stratford-upon-Avon to Oxford to meet with Tobias Bruce, alongside two of his friends, to sell a Cartier watch and some jewellery.
The court heard following inspection of the items, Bruce made off, intent on stealing them. Pursued by Byrne and another man, he was caught up with and stabbed five times, to the right side of his neck, cheek and right shoulder.
Meantime Bruce’s friends were pursued by George Stephens, who stabbed one of them to the side.
Following Tobias Bruce's death, in hospital shortly afterwards, an investigation was launched.
Byrne was arrested and charged after being refused entry to the Netherlands, as he boarded a ferry in April.
Stephens, who at this time was serving time in prison for an unrelated offence, was also arrested.
They are due to be sentenced on Thursday 24th October at Oxford Crown Court.
Senior investigating officer Detective Inspector Stuart May, of the Major Crime Unit, said: “Firstly, I would like to extend my sympathies to the families of Tobias Bruce and his friend who was injured on 25th February.
“They have been patient and dignified as this investigation and court process has progressed, and no family should have to go through this pain.
“This was a very challenging and complex investigation and I am grateful to the jury for reaching their verdict on this case.
“We are continuing our investigation to locate Theodore Mullings-Fairweather who remains outstanding in connection with this investigation. We are resolute in our efforts to secure his return for him to face justice.
“Thames Valley Police will not tolerate the carrying of weapons of any type nor associated violence. We will always work with communities and partners to bring offenders to justice and keep society safe.”