A jockey has pleaded guilty to manslaughter after killing a pensioner in a violent pub brawl last year. Levi Williams, 25, struck Richard Wingrove, 71, at least twice during the altercation in Newmarket, Suffolk. Wingrove was rushed to hospital in a critical condition but died 10 days after the fight, which took place outside the Waggon and Horses pub.
Two other men sustained injuries and were taken to hospital before being discharged. Williams was arrested at the scene, initially on suspicion of assault causing grievous bodily harm. Another man was arrested on suspicion of affray, while a third was arrested on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm, but they have been released under investigation as inquiries continue.
Williams appeared at Peterborough Crown Court on Monday, where he pleaded guilty to manslaughter. He had been charged with murder but prosecutors accepted his plea and he was bailed ahead of sentencing in June.
The court previously heard that a fight involving four men had erupted outside the pub on March 8, 2025. Wingrove and his son had been thrown out by the landlord and were trying to get back inside.
Williams, who was drinking in the garden, and a friend had initially been involved in a physical confrontation with the victim’s son, the court heard.
The jockey threw at least one punch toward Wingrove before hitting him in the chest, causing him to fall. He sustained a fatal head injury upon hitting the ground, the court heard.
Wingrove never regained consciousness and his life support was switched off 10 days later. Williams was re-arrested following the victim’s death and taken in for questioning.
Williams has ridden 12 winners from 156 rides. His four winners for Simon Dow are the most he has ridden for any trainer. His most recent success came on Super Den at Chelmsford back in 2023.
Before his arrest and charge following the altercation, Williams had been rebuilding his career after an 18-month suspension for testing positive for cocaine.
He had been relicensed by the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) and was scheduled to return to the course the week beginning March 10, 2025.