Hitchin man sentenced for manslaughter

A Hitchin man has been sentenced for manslaughter following the death of a man in Ickleford in June 2024.

A Hitchin man has been sentenced for manslaughter following the death of a man in Ickleford in June 2024.

Oscar Jackson, aged 21, of Wilshere Crescent in Hitchin, appeared for sentencing at Huntingdon Crown Court yesterday (Friday 10 January).

He was sentenced to two years imprisonment, suspended for two years, plus 300 hours of unpaid work.

Jackson had been found guilty of manslaughter at Cambridge Crown Court (sitting at Huntingdon Crown Court) on Wednesday 27 November 2024 following a two week-trial.

At around 10.35pm on Sunday 16 June 2024, a verbal disagreement occurred between Jackson and Grant Wallendorf in the car park of Ickleford Sports and Recreation Centre.

Jackson then assaulted Grant, punching him once to the head, leaving him unconscious on the ground.

He then moved his body out of the way of his vehicle so that he could quickly leave the scene.

Jackson was found at his home address by police and subsequently arrested before being taken into custody.

Despite the best efforts of officers and health colleagues, Grant sadly died from his injuries in the hospital.

Detective Chief Inspector Nick Gardner from the Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire Major Crime Unit said: “Jackson’s snap decision to throw a punch during an argument with a stranger has led to a family losing their loved one. Grant’s family are heartbroken and I send my deepest condolences to them.

“I would like to take this opportunity to remind people to consider their actions on nights out, especially when alcohol is involved. If an argument is arising, please stop and walk away. No argument is ever worth a life”.