Trial date set for man accused of murdering ex-Royal Navy officer from Chorlton.

Mike Samwell, 35, died after trying to stop thieves taking his Audi S3.

Published 2nd May 2017

A trial date has been set for a man accused of murdering an ex-Royal Navy officer from Chorlton.

Ryan Gibbons, 29, who spoke only to confirm his name for the brief hearing at Manchester Crown Court, is accused of the murder of 35-year-old Mike Samwell (pictured) on 23rd April.

Gibbons, wearing a grey sweatshirt, was remanded into custody by Judge David Stockdale, the Recorder of Manchester, who set the date of 16th October for a trial, estimated to last 10 days.

The defendant, of Steven Court, Chorlton, has not yet entered any pleas.

He was charged with murder after the death of Mr Samwell at his home on Cranbourne Road in Chorlton.

It is believed the victim was run over after he tried to stop thieves stealing his Audi S3 after breaking into his home while he and his wife were asleep upstairs.

Mr Samwell, who served 12 years in the Royal Navy, was taken to hospital for treatment but died a short time later.

Gibbons is also charged with burglary and aggravated taking a vehicle without consent.

A 15-year-old boy from South Manchester was arrested on suspicion of murder and burglary and has been bailed pending further inquiries.

Two men aged 20 and 21 who were arrested on suspicion of murder and burglary have also been bailed pending further inquiries.