Two Convicted of Murder and Manslaughter in Stockton

Two men have been convicted in connection with the death of Macaulay Branighan in Stockton. Stephen Lee Ward, 25, was found guilty of murder. Sam Tweddle, 22, was convicted of manslaughter.

The convictions followed a trial at Teesside Crown Court today, Monday 20th April.

Macaulay Branighan, 27, from Stockton, died after an incident. This occurred at Westerton Green in Stockton on Sunday 12th October 2025.

Sam Tweddle is from Kimblesworth Walk in Stockton.

Family Statement

Macaulay Branighan's family released a statement today. They also released an image of Macaulay.

"The events of Sunday 12th October 2025 will stay with us forever. Macaulay was taken from us in the most devastating way. He was loved deeply, and his loss has changed our lives forever. Today’s verdict does not ease our grief, but it does bring a measure of justice for him. Our focus now is on honouring Macaulay’s memory and supporting one another as a family."

Sentencing for Ward and Tweddle will take place at a later date.

OFFICIAL SOURCE VERIFICATION: This article is based on an official press release issued by a Police Force. Document: 21/4Two Convicted of Murder and Manslaughter in Connection with the Death of Macaulay Branighan Source Link 

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