A 36-year-old man has been re-arrested on suspicion of murder after a 66-year-old man died from injuries sustained in an assault outside a Leicestershire village pub.
Family tribute to 'devoted' grandfather
David Darke passed away in hospital on Saturday, 27 December 2025, six days after he was seriously injured near The Crown Inn in Appleby Magna. The incident occurred at approximately 9.45pm on Sunday, 21 December.
In an emotional statement, his grieving family described him as a deeply loved father to three daughters and a proud grandfather to three boys. They said: "Dave was a strong, active, intelligent and kind person who was a friend to all. He was a devoted family man with a deep passion for life, the outdoors, nature and walking."
They added that his life was tragically cut short and that he would be "sorely missed by all who knew and loved him."
Investigation escalates to murder
Leicestershire Police confirmed the major development in the case. A spokesperson stated that the 36-year-old man, originally detained on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm following the incident, has now been re-arrested on suspicion of murder.
Detective Inspector Kevin Hames, of the East Midlands Special Operations Murder Investigation Team, provided an update on the inquiry. "The initial investigation resulted in us identifying several witnesses and examining CCTV from the area," he said. "Those inquiries will continue and the suspect will be re-interviewed by detectives."
Ongoing police support for family
DI Hames acknowledged the profound impact on Mr Darke's loved ones, confirming that specialist officers are supporting them through this traumatic time. The investigation remains active as police continue to piece together the exact circumstances that led to the fatal confrontation outside the village pub.
The force has urged anyone with information who has not yet spoken to officers to come forward to assist their ongoing enquiries into this tragic death.
