Sister of Blackpool man Rob Kerr who died in hospital after assault says he 'truly knew how to enjoy life'
“Rob was someone who truly knew how to enjoy life, whether he was having a laugh on the fruit machines or sharing a great moment.”
The sister of a 42-year-old Blackpool man who died days after arriving at hospital with serious injuries after an assault described him as someone who “truly knew how to enjoy life”.
Staff at Blackpool Victoria Hospital called in police after Rober Kerr, known as ‘Rob’ to his family and friends, turned up at the emergency department with serious injuries on Saturday, September 7, 2024.
Despite medics best efforts the 42-year-old’s condition became critical condition and he sadly died three days later.
Initial police enquiries suggested that Mr Kerr had been the victim of an assault in the weeks prior to attending hospital.
A Home Office post-mortem examination ruled the death a homicide. Lancashire Police believe Mr Kerr was assaulted at his home address on Coronation Street in Blackpool late on Sunday, September 1, 2024 or in the early hours of Monday, September 2, 2024.
Paying tribute to her brother, Nancy Kerr said: “Rob, a much loved big brother who left far too soon.
“Rob was someone who truly knew how to enjoy life, whether he was having a laugh on the fruit machines or sharing a great moment.
“To me you will always be exactly as you were. In my heart you will live forever young.”
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Detectives went on to arrest five men on suspicion of murder throughout their almost two-year investigation.
Lancashire Police have now charged a man with manslaughter.
A police spokesman said: “Robert Kerr, 42, died in September 2024 after attending A&E with significant injuries.
“Initial enquiries suggested that Robert had been the victim of an assault in the weeks prior to attending hospital.
“Five men were arrested on suspicion of murder throughout our investigation.
“Following a consultation with the Crown Prosecution Service, one of those men – Andrew McElwee, 29, of Sutherland Road, Blackpool has been charged with manslaughter and will appear at Lancaster Magistrates Court on 21st August
“The other four men have all been released with no further action.”