Staffordshire Police were called to the Ricco & Loren bar on Market Street in Lichfield at 11.25pm on Sunday (24 May) following reports two men had been punched.
One of the victims, who was seriously injured, subsequently died in hospital on Tuesday 26 May.
He has since been named as local businessman Matthew O’Gara, who was a director at the Plough pub in Huddlesford, just three miles from Ricco & Loren.
The second victim was also taken to hospital but has been discharged.
Sorely missed
Solihull man Billy Allison, aged 36, was arrested just after 5am on Monday (26 May) and appeared at North Staffordshire Justice Centre the following day.
After a hearing at Stafford Crown Court on Thursday 28 May, Allison was charged with murder and Section 18 grievous bodily harm with intent.
He is next due to appear at Stafford Crown Court on Tuesday 1 September.
Over the past two days, tributes have been paid online for O’Gara, who also sponsored Lichfield Rugby Club.
“Matt was a friend of the club and a very generous and valued sponsor...he will be sorely missed,” the rugby club said in a post on social media.
“We would like to offer our deepest condolences to all of Matt’s family, friends, colleagues and the wider Plough family.”
Difficult time
Following the tragic incident, Ricco & Loren said the family-run business had been left “devastated”.
In an update shared on social media, the cocktail bar shared it had taken the decision to close for a few days to give staff time to recover.
“We have been working closely with the police on this matter, and we will continue to do so throughout this incredibly sad and difficult time,” the post continued.
“We are sending all our love, thoughts, and best wishes to everyone affected.”
Staffordshire Police have urged anyone who has any information to contact them via an online portal here or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
