Man admits killing pensioner who died after being punched

A 22-year old man has admitted killing a pensioner who died following an assault in Antrim.

Anthony 'Tony' Miskimmon, 74, passed away in hospital in November 2024, days after he was punched and knocked unconscious on Station Road.

Marcus Fleming, from Cedarmount in Antrim, who initially denied a charge of manslaughter, appeared before Belfast Crown Court on Tuesday.

His barrister asked that he be re-arraigned.

Fleming was then charged that he unlawfully killed Anthony Miskimmon.

He was asked if he now pleaded guilty or not guilty to the manslaughter charge and replied "guilty".

The judge was told that Fleming had already pleaded guilty to two charges of causing criminal damage to a police vehicle.

One of these offences was committed on 2 November 2024 with the second on 3 November 2024.

Fleming's barrister told the court the defence had received a psychological report and a second medical report was pending.

The defence barrister then asked for a pre-sentence report to be compiled by probation on his client, with the Crown confirming Victim Impact Statements will also be made.

The judge set the date for the plea hearing as 2 October.

Fleming was remanded back into custody.