Jockey Levi Williams has been charged with murder following the death of a man injured during an altercation in Newmarket earlier this month.

The 25-year-old was initially arrested on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm and released on bail. However, he was rearrested on Tuesday after the victim—reportedly a 70-year-old man—died in hospital from his injuries.

Williams appeared before Ipswich Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, where he was formally charged with murder.

The incident, which occurred in a pub in Newmarket, has sparked widespread public reaction both locally and online. Eyewitnesses allege that Williams and another man were involved in a violent assault on the elderly man and his son. According to social media accounts, the elderly man later succumbed to his injuries in hospital.

One witness posted on social media:

“I was in the pub when it happened. Him and his mate battered a 70-year-old man and his son. The 70-year-old man sadly passed away. Good job on all the people there that tried to help the two blokes and also keep Levi and his mate restrained until the police arrived.”

Another user commented on the tragic consequences of violent behaviour, writing:

“One punch can ruin and end so many lives — happens far too frequently.”

Suffolk Police have not yet released the name of the victim but confirmed that investigations are ongoing. Officers are continuing to appeal for witnesses and CCTV footage from the area at the time of the incident.

Williams, who has competed in several lower-tier races, is understood to have no prior criminal convictions. He is expected to appear at a Crown Court hearing later this month.

The racing community has expressed shock at the news, with many calling for respect for the ongoing legal process and sympathy for the victim’s family.

Anyone with further information is urged to contact Suffolk Police or report anonymously via Crimestoppers.