The family of Michael McDonagh, who died at a Camber Sands holiday park in 2022, say they are devastated by the decision to end the investigation into his death. Sussex Police have confirmed that none of the seven people arrested on suspicion of his murder will be charged. The Crown Prosecution Service has concluded that no further action will be taken into the death at the Parkdean resort on Lydd Road in August 2022.
Sussex Police were called to the holiday camp following an altercation after a football match. The 53-year-old Londoner was pronounced dead at the scene. 150 witness statements were taken and CCTV footage examined.
Mr McDonagh’s family say they are considering an appeal against the decision not to take the investigation further. “We are devastated and enraged by the decision made by the CPS not to prosecute. The last 18 months have been the most difficult months we have ever had to endure and it was only the hope of obtaining justice for dad that pushed us to keep going. However, having discovered that CPS have no intention of holding anyone accountable is not just an insult to him and his family but a disgrace to our justice system and the police. We now understand why victims and the general public are lacking in confidence with a system we are told to believe in and trust.”
Explaining the decision not to prosecute Detective Chief Inspector Emma Vickers from Sussex Police said: “Since the morning of 6 August, 2022, a dedicated team has worked tirelessly to understand the events that led to Michael’s death. Seven people were arrested on suspicion of murder as part of this complex investigation. I can confirm all seven have now been released with no further action to be taken. The evidence gathered during this investigation will now be prepared for HM Coroner, as we look ahead to the inquest that will follow. I would once again like to express my sincere condolences to Michael’s family.”
Speaking after the announcement from Sussex Police, a spokesperson for the Crown Prosecution Service told the BBC: “Charges of murder, manslaughter by unlawful act and manslaughter by gross negligence were considered. However, it remains the decision of the CPS that the legal test for prosecution is not met, and no criminal charges should be brought.”
A spokesperson for the Parkdean Resort said: “We are aware of the decision made by the CPS regarding this tragic event and our thoughts are with the McDonagh family at this difficult time.”
The McDonagh family say they still cannot believe nobody will be held responsible for their father’s death in spite of the number of witnesses and footage.“We will continue to fight on dad’s behalf and will meet with the CPS decision-makers after which we will consider our option to ask for a review by an independent team.”
Image Credits: Sussex Police , McDonagh family .