THE JURY at Swansea Crown Court has found two men guilty of the murder of Andrew Main after five hours and 11 minutes of deliberation.

Joseph Dix, 26, from Somerset, and Macauley Ruddock, 28, from Bath, were convicted of the fatal attack, which unfolded on Princess Way in Swansea city centre on Wednesday (Jul 17) 2024. Andrew Main, originally from Falkirk, Scotland, was rushed to hospital but never regained consciousness, tragically passing away four weeks later.

Initially charged with inflicting grievous bodily harm with intent, Dix and Ruddock faced upgraded charges of murder following Mr Main’s death. Both men denied the allegations, claiming they acted in self-defence after Mr Main allegedly threw punches at them. While admitting to knocking him to the ground, they denied continuing the assault once he was down.

A pursuit turned deadly

The prosecution argued that Dix and Ruddock were the aggressors, pursuing Mr Main from a city centre hotel and launching a violent attack in the street.

Detective Inspector Claire Lamerton, who led the investigation, explained: “Both men were visiting Swansea for work, as was Andrew Main. All three were staying at the same city centre hotel and met for the first time at a nearby bar. Later that night, an argument broke out at the hotel between Joseph Dix and Macauley Ruddock and Andrew Main and his friend Michael Bell. This argument moved onto the street, before Dix and Ruddock chased after Andrew Main, ultimately striking him unconscious before carrying out a sustained attack.”

She continued: “While the parties had all consumed alcohol that night, that does not excuse the level of violence displayed by Joseph Dix and Macauley Ruddock. They clearly set out to cause serious injury to their victim and now face significant prison sentences for their actions.

“Our thoughts remain with Andrew’s family and friends, who have been devastated by what has happened and continue to grieve his loss. This case highlights how intoxicants can negatively affect behaviour and decision-making. Had Joseph Dix and Macauley Ruddock chosen to walk away that night, a life would have been saved, and they would not be convicted killers.”

Minimum sentence awaited

Addressing the defendants, His Honour Judge Paul Thomas KC emphasised that life imprisonment is the only possible sentence for murder. He noted that the court would determine the minimum term Dix and Ruddock must serve before being eligible for parole. Sentencing is set to take place on Friday (Jan 24).

A family’s grief

In a police statement after Mr Main’s death, his sister Nikki Main paid tribute to her brother.

“Andrew, my baby brother, was sadly taken from us far too soon. He was adored by family and friends and beloved by more. We are absolutely devastated by his sudden passing and ask anyone with information to please, please come forward. He will forever live in our hearts and memories,” she said.

She added: “He was a witty man with a huge heart, loyal to the core. He was a fabulous brother, fun uncle, and supportive daddy to his two children. There will never be anyone like Andrew. The hole that has been left in our hearts will never be filled. Everyone in our community has been grief-stricken, but we have rallied together as one at this sad time. As a family, we are destroyed by what has happened to Andrew. We can’t thank everyone enough for the love and support they have shown.”

Sentencing updates will follow on Friday (Jan 24).