Man jailed for murdering 'much-loved' dad

A man who had to be Tasered by police after stabbing another man to death has been given a life sentence.

Gary Hindle - who was described as a "much-loved" father by his family - died at the scene in Westcliff-on-Sea in Essex on 18 July.

Barry Mooney admitted murder and causing grievous bodily harm with intent at Basildon Crown Court on Thursday.

The defendant, 55, of Crowstone Road, Westcliff, must serve a minimum term of 26 years.

Essex Police said CCTV appeared to show the pair having a short conversation, "possibly an argument", at a bench in Hamlet Court Road at about 18:00 BST.

Mooney walked over to a nearby tree and "got out a large knife" before attacking 53-year-old Mr Hindle, the force said.

Shortly after, Mooney attacked another man who happened to be walking on the road and he was taken to hospital with life-threatening injuries to his face.

Detectives said Mooney remained sitting at the scene and had to be Tasered by police after refusing to drop the knife.

While in custody, he made threats towards officers and admitted he had carried out the attack - the force said.

In a joint statement, Mr Hindle's family said: "We are all shocked and devastated by the loss of our much-loved son, dad, brother and partner.

"Gary was one of a kind and had a heart of gold.

"He touched so many lives and will be greatly missed by the many people who loved him dearly."

Det Insp Lisa Hurrell, who led the investigation, said: "This was an horrific, unprovoked attack that has had the most tragic of consequences."

Prosecutors did not pursue the charges of attempted murder - in relation to the second victim - and possession of a bladed or pointed article.

Those offences will instead lie on file.

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