Tyldesley: Courage of witnesses brought murderers to justice

Ben Dawber, 19, Kane Adamson, also 19, and Joshua Prescott, 20, were all jailed for life after murdering Thomas Williamson, an innocent man who was totally unknown to them following a trial at Minshull Street Crown Court.

Investigating officers have now paid tribute to all of those who helped them take the trio off the streets and have paid their respects to Mr Williamson’s family.

Greater Manchester Police (GMP) Detective Chief Inspector Nicola McCulloch said: “The thoughts of the investigation team remain with Thomas’s family who have lost a beloved son and brother in the most violent and cruel circumstances.

“They are understandably devastated by the loss and whilst the sentencing won’t bring Thomas back, I hope it brings some comfort to know that justice has been done.

The case was heard at Minshull Street Crown Court (Image: Newsquest)

“This was a complex investigation, during which GMP detectives pursued extensive lines of inquiry and worked closely with CPS lawyer Nicky Moore to ultimately secure a charge and conviction for Thomas’s murder. 

"I would like to thank the courage of the witnesses who came forward and helped obtain justice for Thomas and his family.

“I am also grateful to the communities of Tyldesley, Atherton and Leigh who stepped forward to support the police and Thomas’ family.”

A trial that took place over several weeks earlier this year heard how Dawber, of no fixed address, Adamson, of no fixed address, and Prescott, of Walter Street, Leigh, had attacked 30-year-old Mr Williamson on Saturday September 2021.

Thomas Williamson had been out walking the night he was attacked (Image: GMP)

Mr Williamson had simply been out walking when he was cornered on Charles Street, Tyldesley, at around 1.30am.

At the three young men’s sentencing, Judge Maurice Greene had described how they were out "looking for trouble" that night.

Mr Williamson was not their intended target but they set upon him nonetheless and he ultimately died of multiple stab wounds.

DCI McCulloch said: “It’s clear from events that Dawber, Adamson and Prescott are menacing and highly aggressive individuals.

“Thomas was not the man they were seeking that night, but they launched a vicious attack which needlessly robbed Thomas of his life.

“I am pleased these three men are now safely behind bars and I hope they will use their time in prison to think on the pain and heartbreak they have brought to a loving family.”

All three have now been jailed for life.

Dawber, who was also sentenced for attempted robbery and three counts of attempted robbery, was given a minimum term of 20 years.

Adamson was given a minimum term of 18 years for murder and attempted robbery while Prescott was given a minimum term of 17 years.

Mr Williamson’s mother, Sue Williamson, said: "Firstly I want to thank the police and the community of Tyldesley who have helped get justice for Tom and supported us through the most difficult time in our lives. 

"It’s been so hard every day since losing Tom and it's something no parent should ever have to experience. 

"I miss Tom so much every day, he was always there to ask me how my day had been, to send me off to work with a ‘have a good day’, and to give me a hug.

“There’s a hole in my life with him gone, that can never be filled, and our home is empty without him.

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"Even now, knowing he’s gone, when I hear everyday sounds and creaks of the now-empty house coming from upstairs at home, my first thought is of Tom, and thinking that he’s going to come downstairs.

"It hurts afresh every time I then have to acknowledge that he won’t.

"Tom was loving, kind and funny, and he always knew how to lift my spirits and make me laugh.

“He was my son, but he was my friend as well, and he was also very close to his dad David and his younger sister Sarah."