RICKY Butler died of head injuries caused by a nunchuk martial arts weapon – a court heard this morning.
Richard Martin, 19, of Heath Way, Horsham, has denied murdering the popular 15-year-old Forest School pupil.
He also denies wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm to another teenager who can't be named for legal reasons.
Prosecutor Charles Miskin told Lewes Crown Court that Martin was asked to leave a fancy dress party in Gorringes Brook, Horsham, on November 3 last year. He said Martin left but came back with the nunchuks and attacked Ricky, hitting him around the face and head. Mr Miskin said the other teenager was injured when he tried to intervene.
Ricky was taken to East Surrey Hospital, in Redhill, then transferred to St Georges Hospital, in Tooting, London, where he was pronounced dead from a fractured skull and internal bleeding.
The case continues.
Regular trial updates will appear on this website throughout the day.
Ricky Butler murder trial to start
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