Richard Mannington Bowes

Richard Mannington Bowes was a 68-year-old retired man from Ealing whose life was tragically taken on 8 August 2011 during the London riots.

He was a quiet, ordinary local resident who had lived in the area for many years, he is remembered by his family and friends as a decent and community-minded man whose death caused profound grief to those who knew him. His killing shocked the local community and became one of the most poignant symbols of the unrest that swept across England that summer.

He was attacked while trying to extinguish a fire in a litter bin near his home in Spring Bridge Road, Haven Green. As rioters looted and set fires, Richard stepped in to prevent further damage.

Darrell Desuze, a 16-year-old from Hounslow, punched him with full force to the jaw; Richard fell backwards, struck his head on the road and suffered catastrophic brain injuries. He died in hospital three days later on 11 August 2011.

Desuze later pleaded guilty to manslaughter, violent disorder and several burglaries committed that night.

He was sentenced to eight years’ detention at Inner London Crown Court in April 2012.

Rest in peace Richard. You will not be forgotten.