Chelmsford: Man found guilty of manslaughter following death of 16-year-old boy

A 20-year-old man has been found guilty of manslaughter, following the death of a boy in Chelmsford in February 2023.

Elijah Clark, 20 of Gloucester Avenue, Chelmsford appeared at Chelmsford Crown Court today (2 May), where following a four-week-trial he was found guilty of manslaughter and actual bodily harm.

An investigation was launched by Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate on 12 February 2023 after a boy was seriously assaulted close to a park in Waterson Vale in Chelmsford. The victim, 16-year-old Andy Wood was taken to hospital where he sadly died.

Elijah Clark was quickly identified as being at the scene around the time of the assault. He was initially arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and later arrested and charged with murder.

Following a four-week trial, Clark was found guilty of manslaughter and actual bodily harm. The jury found him not guilty of murder. A sentencing date is yet to be set.

Following the verdict, Andy Wood’s family have paid tribute to him, saying the following:

“Nothing will bring our awesome Andy back, but today's verdict gives us a small amount of comfort and possibly some sort of closure to allow us to properly grieve going forward.

“The people that knew Andy, will know what a fantastic human being he was and he will be remembered by all that he touched, as an amazing, loving, caring, son, grandson, brother, nephew, cousin and friend that did not deserve to be taken away so soon.

“We would like to thank Essex Police and CPS for their work during the investigation. Thank you also to everyone that helped in trying to save Andy’s life.

“We will not be making any further comment and request we are respectfully left to grieve as we try to piece our lives together without our Andy.”

Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Chief Inspector Louise Metcalfe said: 

“Today's verdict brings conclusion to an extensive investigation by Essex Police which has lasted over a year.

“My thoughts remain with Andy’s family and friends at this difficult time, and I commend them for their strength throughout this investigation.”