Man sentenced to six years in prison for murdering his friend

A man from Birmingham has been sentenced to more than six years in prison after attacking his friend, who later succumbed to a brain hemorrhage. Andrew Behan, 41, from Wyrley Road, admitted to causing the death of Francis Leitner, 45, who passed away in hospital two days before Christmas 2024.

According to West Midlands Police, on 21 December 2024, Behan and Leitner visited an off-licence in Kingstanding to purchase alcohol. Outside the shop, Behan was observed headbutting Leitner.

Detective Inspector Michelle Cordell said, "The aggression Andrew Behan displayed towards Francis Leitner was completely unwarranted and tragically resulted in his death."

After the initial confrontation, the two men took a taxi back to a property in Witton, where Behan continued the assault, seizing Leitner's phone and striking him further. Leitner was later hospitalized with a brain hemorrhage and died two days afterward.

Behan pleaded guilty at Birmingham Crown Court on 10 July and was sentenced on 24 November to six years and seven months in prison.

Det Insp Cordell added, "Our hearts are with Francis family and friends. I hope the sentence brings them some measure of solace as they adjust to life without him."

Author: Sophia Brooks