A man has been sentenced to over three years in prison after causing fatal injuries during an assault in Birchington earlier this year.
Rashko Kurtev, 32, of Park Avenue, Birchington, was sentenced to three years and nine months in prison after admitting to manslaughter at Canterbury Crown Court. The incident occurred on 9 March 2024 outside the Seabells Fish and Chip shop on Station Road, Birchington.
The Assault
The altercation began with an argument between the victim, Rodney Macleod, and staff at the fish and chip shop. Kurtev, a worker at the establishment, intervened by throwing some of the victim’s belongings at him before escalating the situation by throwing two metal chairs. The second chair struck Mr Macleod in the head, causing a traumatic brain injury.
Injuries and Arrest
Mr Macleod fell to the ground, and emergency services were called to the scene. He was initially taken to a local hospital before being airlifted to a London hospital for further treatment. Unfortunately, he succumbed to his injuries on 15 April 2024. A post-mortem examination confirmed a traumatic brain injury as a key cause of his death.
Kurtev was arrested at the scene and originally charged with causing grievous bodily harm with intent. Following Mr Macleod’s death, the charges were upgraded to manslaughter.
Court Proceedings and Sentencing
Kurtev pleaded guilty to manslaughter earlier this month. During the sentencing on 15 November 2024, the court acknowledged the severity of his actions, with Judge Anne Hetherington highlighting the avoidable nature of the incident.
Police Statement
Detective Inspector Colin McKeen, the senior investigating officer, emphasized the tragic consequences of the violence.
“This case shows the catastrophic consequences of people turning to violence during disagreements. One man has lost his life, and another is in jail following an argument this offender could have walked away from. The use of a metal chair as a weapon was completely unnecessary.”
DI McKeen extended condolences to the victim’s family and friends, adding that he hopes the swift investigation and court proceedings bring some closure as they grieve their loss.
This case underscores the dangers of resorting to violence and the irreversible consequences it can bring.
