21-year-old Ryan Cooper of Chatfield Lodge, Newport will appear before Winchester Crown Court later this month after being charged with manslaughter following the death of 49-year-old Gary ‘Jeff’ Stacey in February.
As previously reported by Island Echo, Mr Cooper was initially arrested on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm after 49-year-old Gary Stacey – known as Jeff – was found lying in the middle of St James’ Street by a bus driver during the early hours of Sunday 14th February.
Mr Cooper, whose address was previously given as Alma Road, Southampton, was later arrested on suspicion of murder when Mr Stacey died in Southampton General Hospital.
Last month Mr Cooper was charged with unlawfully killing Gary Jeffrey Stacey, contrary to common law.
The young Islander did not enter a plea when he appeared before the Isle of Wight Magistrates Court this morning (Friday). The case has been adjourned to Winchester Crown Court on Friday 29th July.
