Today, Wednesday 22 February, at Newry Crown Court, 52-year-old Brian Anthony Nicholl was sentenced for the manslaughter of Nigel Burgess.

Mr Burgess, who was aged 65, died following an altercation on the night of 11 April 2020 in Armagh.

Brian Nicholl was sentenced to 100 hours of community service, and two years on probation.

Detective Inspector Michelle Griffin said: “Police officers, along with the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service, responded to a report of a fight between the two men in the Ballynahone Close area of the city.  This was on the night of Saturday 11 April 2020. 

“Mr Burgess was found lying unresponsive on the ground and, sadly, was later pronounced dead at the scene.”

Detective Inspector Griffin continued: “A subsequent post-mortem revealed pre-existing heart disease.  And it’s believed that Mr Burgess’ death was caused by a cardiac arrest, triggered during the physical altercation between the two.  

“This is a tragic case, which has seen a life cut short and left loved ones bereft.

 “I would urge people to think about how their actions – within a matter of minutes or even seconds – can change lives forever."

The family of Mr Burgess have expressed thanks to both the Police Service and Ambulance Service for their response and support, especially their efforts to resuscitate Mr Burgess.