A jury at Lewes Crown Court was told that a person who has taken a serious head injury can have a 'lucid interval', remaining awake and conscious for a time.

The court heard earlier this week that Richard Martin, 19, of Heath Way, Horsham, killed Ricky with a nunchuk martial arts weapon outside a party in Horsham last year.

Martin has admitted carrying out the attack but denies murder, saying he did not intend to kill Ricky.

He also denies wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm to another teenager (Witness A] who cannot be named for legal reasons.

Home office pathologist Dr Kenneth Shorrock told the court yesterday (Thursday August 21) that a blow to the head had left the 15 year old with blood leaking into the lining around his brain.

However, he was still conscious after the fatal attack and one witness reported hearing him say: "He couldn't knock me out - is that all he's got?"

Dr Shorrock said it is not unusual for someone with a severe head wound to remain awake.

"They might be knocked out or concussed very briefly, they may not," he said.

"They might have a bad headache, they might not feel very well, but they remain conscious."

The trial continues.

Trial updates will appear on this website throughout the day.

Ricky Butler trial latest - pathologist gives evidence


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