A night out turned tragic for former sergeant major and police officer Paul Ainscough, 57, after a heated argument over chicken wings in a Leyland pub beer garden. Paul, described as a kind and generous friend, was enjoying an evening with his mate, Liam Slack. But when the drinks flowed, tensions rose. After Paul bought chicken wings, Slack overstepped by grabbing Paul’s food, leading to a quarrel.
Things escalated when Slack tossed Paul’s rucksack and pushed him, causing Paul to fall and suffer severe injuries. Though Paul initially brushed off the incident with humour, saying Slack “couldn’t hold his beer,” he later experienced intense abdominal pain. Tragically, within two days, Paul succumbed to his injuries, unaware his friend’s shove had caused internal bleeding.
Slack, who at first saw the altercation as a minor scuffle, was devastated to learn about Paul’s death, fearing his actions were responsible. He later admitted his regret in court, pleading guilty to manslaughter. Slack has been sentenced to over four years in prison.
In court, it was revealed that Paul had spent 24 years in the army before joining the police, earning a reputation as a reliable and respected man. His unexpected death has left his family heartbroken. The judge reflected on Paul’s remarkable life, sadly cut short by an impulsive moment fuelled by alcohol. Slack’s genuine remorse was noted, but the incident serves as a stark reminder of how quickly a night out can turn into a lifetime of regret.