Man sentenced for one punch pub murder

A killer who murdered a man with one punch outside a pub has been sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 16 years.

Christopher Cooper, 39, was sentenced at Swansea Crown Court today, for killing a man with one punch outside a pub in Gorseinon.

In May 2024, Kelvin Evans was out with his partner at the Station Hotel, which is known locally as “The Gyp”. Cooper and his partner, Catherine Francis, were also drinking there.

Mr Evans left the pub to join his partner at another venue, as she had previously left, when Cooper followed Mr Evans and punched him in the head from behind.

Mr Evans was taken to hospital, and sadly died of his injuries a month later, on 26 June 2024.

Francis was aware of the assault but did not call police. Analysis of her phone showed that she had searched for hotels immediately after the attack. Police arrested the pair the next day at a service station in South Cornelly.

Cooper had pleaded guilty to manslaughter but denied intending to kill or cause serious harm. After hearing all the evidence, however, a jury convicted Cooper of murder.

Francis pleaded not guilty to assisting an offender but was also convicted by a jury.

Nia Sturgess of the Crown Prosecution Service said: “This case shows the devastating consequences that can arise from just one punch.

“What started as a trivial issue for Christopher Cooper resulted in a senseless act of violence and a tragic loss life.

“Cooper punched Kelvin Evans from behind, giving him no opportunity to defend himself.  

“The Crown Prosecution Service presented strong evidence to demonstrate Cooper’s intent, resulting in this conviction.

“Our thoughts and sympathies remain with Kelvin Evans’ loved ones.”

Christopher Cooper was sentenced to life imprisonment and ordered to serve a minimum of 16 years. Catherine Francis was sentenced to two years' imprisonment. Both defendants were sentenced on 3 January 2025.