A MOTHER backed a “One punch can kill” police campaign today to target drunken violence over Christmas after her son was killed by a thug.
Andrew Molloy, 25, died after being punched by former boxer Louis Veitch, 22, who moments earlier told onlookers: “You might think I’m a short fat muppet, but I’ve got a killer punch.”
The attack was caught on a graphic CCTV clip, re-released today by Greater Manchester Police (GMP) to launch their campaign.
Mother-of-three Jackie Molloy, 48, said: “It shows just how easy it is. Just one punch and that’s it, his life was ended, somebody’s life is over in a second and a family are devastated.
“My son is dead because somebody probably had a bit too much to drink and just thought he would be clever.
“The minute you decide to punch somebody that’s it, it can be life or death, that one punch can be life or death to somebody.
“The message is, by all means go on and enjoy yourself with your friends, you’re all only young, but if you’re in a pub and someone is being a bit aggressive, get out as fast as you can.”
Peacemaker Mr Molloy had intervened to stop trouble involving Veitch inside a pub.
He had his hands in his pockets and was knocked off his feet by the sneak punch, falling backwards and his head hitting the floor.
Mr Molloy was taken to Hope Hospital, Salford, where he died six hours after the attack outside a pub in Oldham on March 15.
Veitch, from Blackpool, pleaded guilty to manslaughter and was jailed for 6½ years.
Young men aged 18-25 are the most likely to commit and be victims of serious violent crime, according to Government statistics.
Alcohol-fuelled violence has claimed the lives of 13 people over the past five years in Greater Manchester alone.
Assistant Chief Constable Garry Shewan added: “It only takes one punch to kill someone and destroy the lives of people’s families. People who have had a drink do things they wouldn’t dream of doing when they’re sober and a stupid, split-second reaction can have devastating consequences.
“We’re appealing to people to think about their actions – avoid trouble and try not to get into arguments or vulnerable situations.
“By keeping control of your temper and walking away, you could avoid destroying your life and the lives of others.”
