Canal path killer from Blackburn jailed for life

Matthew McKay left his victim for dead after the unprovoked attack

A 21-year-old has been jailed for life for beating a man to death on a canal towpath after asking for a cigarette.

Matthew McKay, of Bridge Street Blackburn, was told he would serve at least 18 years in prison for murdering 40-year-old John Crabtree.

McKay suddenly punched and stamped on his victim leaving him to die near the Moorings pub, Blackburn, in September 2009, Preston Crown Court heard.

Mr Crabtree suffered a fatal brain injury in the "unprovoked" attack.

McKay, who was found guilty of murder by a unanimous jury, showed "no remorse", Lancashire Police said.

'Vulnerable individual'

The incident happened shortly after 2000 GMT on 12 September 2009 on the canal tow path near Bolton Road.

McKay approached Mr Crabtree and asked for a cigarette but without provocation or warning punched him twice in the head causing him to fall to the ground before kicking and stamping on his head.

Acting Det Ch Insp Des Coop said: "I am very pleased with the sentence passed today, it takes account of how violent and sustained the assault was.

"It was a completely unprovoked attack on a vulnerable individual who did not pose a threat to anyone. McKay left his victim for dead and has shown absolutely no remorse.

"This has been a difficult investigation and I am very grateful for the assistance of the witnesses who came forward and helped outline what had gone on.

"My thoughts today are with John's sister Debbie and her family."