Llanelli man sentenced for unlawful killing

A man who killed a former colleague after a night out together has been sentenced at Swansea Crown Court.

The victim, 22-year-old Liam Morgan-Whittle, had been out drinking with friends on 24 March 2023 when they were joined by Jason Thomas, 40. The two men knew each other as they had previously worked for the same construction company for a brief time.

They all returned to a flat on Robinson Street, Llanelli, where Thomas and the victim started to boast about who could take a punch the best, resulting in Thomas punching the victim twice in quick succession.

The blows knocked Mr Morgan-Whittle unconscious and his health rapidly deteriorated leading to emergency services being called. 

Sadly, despite the efforts of the emergency services, Liam Morgan-Whittle died from his injuries.

Jonathan Pritchard of the Crown Prosecution Service said: “Regardless of what was said that night, Jason Thomas decided to use his fists and bears full responsibility for his actions.

“He caused significant injuries through his violence, resulting in the tragic loss of life.

“The strength of evidence presented by the Crown Prosecution Service led to a guilty plea to manslaughter.

“Although Thomas has been brought to justice, nothing can change what he did. He will have to live with the consequences for the rest of his life. 

“Our thoughts remain with Liam’s family and friends who have suffered a terrible loss.” 

Jason Thomas was sentenced to two years and six months on 3 March 2025.