Man Jailed for Killing Biological Father Hours After Discovering His Identity in Pub

A 37-year-old man has been convicted of killing his biological father just hours after learning who he was during a family gathering at a pub in County Durham, England.

Martin Greensmith fatally pushed Steven Shevels, 61, during a confrontation outside the Queen’s Head pub in Willington on Christmas Eve, December 24, 2025. Shevels fell backward, struck his head on the concrete and later died from his injuries.

Greensmith was found guilty of manslaughter by a majority verdict at Teesside Crown Court following a seven-day trial. He was remanded in custody ahead of sentencing.

Family Revelation Came Hours Before Fatal Confrontation

The court heard that Greensmith knew his biological father was named Steven Shevels but did not know his identity until his mother pointed him out at the pub on Christmas Eve.

Shevels was also drinking at the establishment and reportedly attempted to speak with Greensmith and his family. The interaction caused tension, and Shevels was later asked to leave the pub, according to evidence presented at trial.

The two men subsequently encountered each other in the beer garden. A confrontation followed, ending when Greensmith pushed Shevels and caused him to fall onto the hard surface.

Defendant Claimed He Acted in Self-Defense

Greensmith admitted pushing Shevels but denied that he was criminally responsible for his death. He told the court that he felt intimidated and described the push as a way to create distance between them.

Prosecutors argued that the force used was unlawful and caused the fatal fall. The jury rejected Greensmith’s account of self-defense and convicted him of manslaughter.

Medical evidence indicated that Shevels suffered blunt-force trauma to the head. He lost consciousness, and his condition deteriorated despite attempts by people at the pub and emergency responders to help him. He was pronounced dead after efforts to save him.

Police Found Searches About Manslaughter

Greensmith left the pub before emergency services arrived. He handed himself in to police the following day, Christmas Day.

Investigators examining his mobile phone found online searches for legal representation and information about “involuntary manslaughter.” The evidence was presented during the trial as part of the investigation into the events following the confrontation.

Greensmith told the court he was remorseful and wanted to apologize to Shevels’ family.

Victim’s Family Left Devastated

Following the verdict, Shevels’ sister, Angela, described her brother as the victim of an unprovoked act of violence.

She said his death had left a profound void in the lives of his relatives, friends and everyone who knew him.

Detective Chief Inspector Alfie Keane of Durham Constabulary described the case as devastating, noting that a split-second decision could have lifelong consequences for everyone involved.

The conviction concluded the trial, while the court considered the appropriate sentence for Greensmith.

Sources: The Sun