MICHAEL Drake has been convicted of murder after the death of Jordan Simcock in Ruishton.

Mr Simcock died in hospital in February after being repeatedly hit over the head with a weight following an argument.

Drake, of Duke Street, Taunton, admitted the manslaughter of the 24-year-old, but denied murder on the grounds he had not intended to cause him serious harm or kill him.

Now, the 46-year-old has been convicted of murdering Mr Simcock following a trial at Bristol Crown Court. He is due to be sentenced at the same court tomorrow (August 29).

Jordan Simcock passed away in hospital, two days after being attacked in Ruishton. Picture: Avon & Somerset Police

The court heard the men had been out drinking together in Taunton before leaving to an address in Coronation Close, Ruishton, with another friend.

While at the property, they had an argument after which Drake repeatedly struck Jordan over the head with a weight plate.

Drake then left the house with the weight plate in a bag. Their friend then called an ambulance for Jordan who was taken to hospital where he sadly died two days later.

CCTV footage showed Drake walking towards Taunton, at which point he was no longer carrying the bag.
It was later found in a subsequent police search.

Drake then visited a friend’s house in Taunton where he showered and was given a clean set of clothes, before being seen again later that night walking on to Priory Bridge Road carrying a bag, but less than 10 minutes later he was sighted without it and walking bare foot.

He was arrested that night and subsequently charged with murder.

Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Inspector Nadine Partridge, said: “This was a shocking attack and our thoughts are with Jordan’s family as they continue to process that horrific night.

“A pathologist found Jordan had been hit over the head at least four times, causing catastrophic injuries which, despite the best efforts of medics, led to his death. It was a brutal attack by a man clearly intent on causing serious injury.

“Michael Drake knew he had caused Jordan significant harm, but rather than attempt to help him, he left to try and hide his crimes.”