Jim Davis, aged 73, tragically passed away after stepping in to stop two youths throwing objects from Cheltenham’s Millennium Bridge. The incident occurred on April 8 at around 7.30pm when Mr Davis was on Honeybourne Way and witnessed a branch being hurled at a cyclist below.
Fortunately, the cyclist was not injured. However, Mr Davis confronted the teenagers as they were leaving the bridge. According to police reports, the situation escalated, and one of the boys punched Mr Davis in the face, causing him to fall to the ground. The suspects fled the scene before officers arrived.
Mr Davis was rushed to Gloucestershire Royal Hospital but sadly died two days later, on April 10. Two teenagers, aged 16 and 17, were arrested in connection with the attack. After a review, the 16-year-old has been released with no further action, while the 17-year-old remains on police bail as the investigation continues.
The family of Mr Davis paid a heartfelt tribute, stating, “We as a family are devastated by the loss of Jimmy. He was a friend to so many, but to me and my family he was a much-loved uncle, brother and brother-in-law. Jimmy was one of the kindest people anyone could have the pleasure of meeting. Caring, compassionate, always putting others first. His love of motorcycles brought friends and joy to many. Our lives will never be the same without him, and we know many others share in this sadness.”
A Gloucestershire Police spokesperson confirmed that the Major Crime Investigation Team is handling the case. They continue to urge witnesses or anyone with information to come forward. Witnesses can report details online, quoting incident 430 of 8 April.
Originally published by UKNIP.
