In a tragic incident at a Sainsbury’s store in Beckenham, southeast London, Demiesh Williams, 30, was sentenced for the fatal attack on Andrew Clark, a “hard-working family man,” aged 43. This event unfolded after a dispute over queue cutting escalated into violence.
Killer Reenters Sainsbury’s After Queue Dispute
On March 16, Andrew Clark enjoyed a family celebration watching his beloved Newcastle United’s Carabao Cup victory. The following day, he visited a Sainsbury’s near his home with his wife to purchase groceries. During this routine outing, a confrontation arose when Williams attempted to cut in line at the tills.
Details of the Attack
As per evidence presented in Woolwich Crown Court, Andrew Clark confronted Williams about his behavior. Following a brief argument, Williams left the store but later returned, intent on confronting Clark again. CCTV footage captured him strolling back into the Sainsbury’s where he struck Clark with an open palm, causing him to fall and sustain severe injuries.
- Victim: Andrew Clark, 43
- Attacker: Demiesh Williams, 30
- Date of Incident: March 17
- Sentence: 5 years and 3 months for manslaughter
- Injury Type: Catastrophic brain injury
- Time Until Death: 3 days later
Family Impact
Clark succumbed to his injuries three days post-attack, leading to immense grief for his family. A statement from his 14-year-old daughter highlighted her anguish, expressing that Williams had “destroyed” her family in an unimaginable way.
During the sentencing, His Honour Judge Andrew Lees conveyed the profound loss experienced by Clark’s family. He emphasized the significant emotional toll this incident had taken on loved ones left behind.
Court Proceedings
Williams was apprehended two days post-incident, arrested at a location in Croydon, south London. Though he initially denied murder charges, he ultimately pleaded guilty to manslaughter. The court noted that he would serve two-thirds of his sentence before being eligible for release under license conditions.
This incident serves as a devastating reminder of how quickly disputes can escalate and alter lives forever. Andrew Clark’s legacy remains in the hearts of those who knew him, while the consequences of such actions weigh heavily on those involved.
