Jordan Simcock was beaten to death after a row with his friend Michael Drake(Image: Western Daily Press)

Man who beat mate to death with weight plate during row is jailed for life

Victim Jordan Simcock was just 24 years old

by · DevonLive

A man who brutally murdered his friend by repeatedly striking him with a weight plate has been sentenced to life imprisonment. Michael Drake, 46, was convicted of the murder of 24-year-old Jordan Simcock in Ruishton, Somerset, during an argument earlier this year.

Bristol Crown Court heard that Drake, from Duke Street in Taunton, had been drinking with Mr Simcock in his hometown before they headed to an address in Coronation Close, Ruishton, with another friend on Monday, February 19. During a dispute, Drake hit Mr Simcock multiple times over the head with a weight plate, inflicting fatal injuries.

Another friend called an ambulance but Mr Simcock died of his injuries in hospital two days later. CCTV footage later showed Drake leaving the premises with the weight plate in a bag, which was subsequently retrieved by the police.

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He then went to a friend's house in Taunton where he showered and changed into fresh clothes, before being seen walking towards Priory Bridge Road carrying a bag. Less than 10 minutes later, he was spotted without the bag and walking barefoot. Drake was apprehended that same day and charged with murder by detectives from Avon and Somerset Police.

Drake pleaded guilty to manslaughter but denied murder. However, a jury at Bristol Crown Court found him guilty on Wednesday, August 28. He was sentenced to life in prison today, Thursday, August 29, and must serve a minimum of 18 years behind bars.

Michael Drake repeatedly struck 24-year-old Jordan Simcock over the head with a weight plate(Image: Avon and Somerset Police)

Detective Inspector Nadine Partridge, who spearheaded the inquiry, commented: "Jordan's family have shown immense courage following his death earlier this year and I'd like to pay tribute to them.

"Jordan was a young man whose life was tragically cut short by someone who he regarded as a friend, but who instead brutally attacked him, fatally wounding him and making no attempt to help him. This was a complex investigation and I am pleased the judge has today handed Drake a lengthy prison sentence and delivered justice for Jordan."