A man, described as intoxicated, allegedly killed his girlfriend’s brother at a family birthday celebration by intentionally running him over with his car after issuing threats. The incident occurred during his first meeting with the victim at the birthday party in Woolton, Liverpool.

The accused, Stephen Bates, reportedly engaged in a physical altercation with the victim earlier in the evening after consuming a mix of alcoholic beverages at the gathering. Despite being driven home to calm down, Bates returned to the scene in his Ford Fiesta and fatally struck the victim with his vehicle.

Witnesses testified that Bates had been behaving aggressively and making threats towards the victim before the tragic event unfolded. Bates was then driven home but suddenly accelerated away, causing the fatal collision that resulted in the victim being trapped under the car.

The victim, Martin O’Donovan, was ultimately rescued by family members but succumbed to severe head injuries sustained during the incident. Bates, who admitted to manslaughter but denied murder, is currently standing trial for the tragic incident.

The courtroom proceedings continue as further details and testimonies are presented in the case.