Man jailed for brutal Wolverhampton murder
It happened at a flat in Merridale in 2021.
Last updated 3rd May 2024
A man has been jailed for brutally murdering another man at his flat in Wolverhampton.
Alfred Mattox was found with severe head and face injuries at his home in Merridale on 10 May, 2021.
Vitalie Tanga had attacked the carer in his own home after claiming Mattox made a pass at him at a party.
Neighbours called the police after hearing banging coming from inside the flat, but when officers arrived it took Tanga seven minutes to let them in.
Tanga attempted to leave the flat, but was detained by officers.
Alfred and his two friends were found unconscious on the floor. The 56-year-old was taken to hospital with life-threatening injuries, where two weeks later he sadly died.
A post mortem found that he had multiple fractures to his face, a brain injury and multiple organ failure likely caused by either being kicked or heavily punched with a weapon.
Last month Tanga, aged 40, of no fixed address, was found guilty of murder and assault and today he was handed a life sentence and ordered to serve at least 25 years behind bars.
Detective Inspector Ade George from the Homicide Unit at West Midlands Police, said: “At no point has Tanga taken any accountability for the violent attack on Mr Mattox and his friend. Instead he has put the family of Mr Mattox through the pain of having to sit through a trial.
“It is clear the Tanga had a problem with Mr Mattox’s sexuality so much so that he violently attacked him causing injuries that proved fatal.
“I hope today’s sentence brings some peace to Mr Mattox’s family.”
The family of Mr Mattox released this statement: "It has been almost three years since Alfie was taken away from us and we are still in shock that he is no longer with us. Alfie was a gentle soul who would never get into a fight with anyone.
"He was kind, caring, loving and a respectful man who did not deserve to be taken from his family and friends in such a cruel way.
"Alfie will be missed by all who knew loved him. We will never understand why anyone would want to hurt Alfie.
"We want to thank the police for their support over the last couple of years and everyone involved in getting justice for Alfie. Nothing can bring our brother, uncle, cousin or friend back but at least justice has been done."