A 63-year-old grandad was hammered to death following a furious money row. Jason Moore, 39, has now been convicted of manslaughter.
The savage attack took place on September 12 last year when Francis Reilly visited Moore’s home on Ingrave Road. A heated argument over an unpaid debt quickly escalated.
Moore slammed Francis against a wall before repeatedly hammering him, delivering fatal blows. Despite his injuries, Francis miraculously managed to drag himself out of the flat.
Moore continued the assault by chasing Francis outside. A taxi driver witnessed the grim chase and called for help. Two Essex Police officers on patrol were flagged down, but sadly, Francis was pronounced dead at the scene.
Moore was initially charged with murder and claimed self-defence. However, the jury at Basildon Crown Court was unable to reach a verdict. On October 6, Moore shocked the court by admitting to manslaughter. His plea was accepted, with sentencing scheduled for later this month.
Detective Inspector Lisa Hurrell said, “Mr Reilly was killed in an utterly senseless act of violence. Moore was a drug user who regularly accrued debts with friends and acquaintances to feed his habit. When Mr Reilly visited him to remonstrate over an unpaid debt, Moore unleashed a vicious and sustained assault.”
She added, “Moore has rightly been convicted and I hope this provides some closure for his family and loved ones.”
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