No Charges For Shopkeeper Over Man's Death

No charges will be brought against a shopkeeper after a man who attempted to rob him was stabbed to death with his own knife.

Tony Singh, 34, was arrested following the death of Liam Kilroe, 25, at Mr Singh's Lifestyle Express store on Birleywood Road in Skelmersdale on February 17.

Mr Kilroe, who had previous convictions for assault and robbery, was wanted by police at the time of his death for failing to appear at Preston Crown Court to face armed robbery charges. Police believe that Mr Kilroe was trying to rob Mr Singh at the time of his death. He died from a single stab wound to the chest. Mr Singh also suffered knife wounds to his back and neck during the incident.

The Crown Prosecution Service said that they had decided that Mr Singh acted in self-defence and should not be prosecuted over Mr Kilroe's death. Assistant District Crown Prosecutor for South West Lancashire John Dilworth said: "It is clear he was trying to rob Mr Singh of the day's takings and that Mr Singh resisted and defended himself in the struggle that followed.

"While this case does not concern a householder defending themselves against an intruder, it has very similar considerations. Therefore, we have considered our prosecution policy and guidance on householders and the use of force.

"The CPS understands that anxiety may sometimes be felt by innocent members of the public if they are obliged to defend themselves from attack. But the law protects the law-abiding and the Director of Public Prosecutions is determined to ensure that those who use reasonable force in defending themselves will enjoy the full protection of the law. They will not be prosecuted."

See: Foiled Burglar Stabbed

(KMcA)