An 82-year-old army veteran has died after three teenagers attacked him while on his way home. Dennis Clarke was assaulted by two 13-year-olds and a 16-year-old on May 6 as he was lining up at a Derby bus station at around 4:30pm after he had gone out on a solo shopping trip.
Police said the former soldier had an argument with a group of youngsters after a dispute ensued in the Eagle Market. The teenagers attacked Clarke at the bus station and punched him in the head. The elderly veteran was rushed to the hospital where he died nine days later from his injuries.
A man has sadly died following an alleged assault at #Derby bus station on Thursday 6 May. The 82-year-old passed away in hospital on Saturday. Three teenagers have been arrested in connection with the isolated incident. Read more here: https://t.co/sPw8Nip4cR
— Derbyshire Police (@DerbysPolice) May 17, 2021
According to Derbyshire Police, the suspected teenagers have since been arrested but were released on bail and believe the “mindless” attack to be an isolated case. Investigations are still underway as the victim's family have also been provided with specialist officers to help them cope with their loss.
A spokesman for Derbyshire Police said: “A man has died following an alleged assault at Derby bus station earlier this month. While several witnesses have come forward, officers are particularly keen to hear from anyone who may have any footage of the assault, or the moments before or after the incident.”
Clarke is described as a fit, active and healthy church-going elderly veteran who loved fishing. His loved ones said he was looking forward to receiving his Telegram from the Queen on his 100th birthday.
The victim’s friends and loved ones have written tributes to him on social media following his hospitalization.
Please join us in paying tribute to British Army veteran Dennis Clarke who has died aged 82.
— Veterans’ Foundation (@VeteransFdn) May 19, 2021
Dennis passed away in hospital as a result of being attacked whilst queueing for a bus in his home city of Derby.
Our thoughts are with his family and friends. pic.twitter.com/LLrnDF2XSI
A buddy of Clarke’s, Kath Foster wrote: “A lovely old man who never had a bad word to say about anybody and didn't have a bad bone in his body.” She also described the attack on Clarke as mind blowing and senseless.
While still in hospital, Clarke's niece said: “Just need to share this fun time with my dad's twin brother, uncle Dennis, who is hospitalised by one mindless fool who thinks it's alright to punch an 80-year-old. Just pray our uncle recovers from this love him so much."
Ricky Davey, Clarke’s nephew also wrote on his Facebook: “And just to say what an absolute legend Dennis was. Absolutely heartbroken. My great uncle, my best friend, RIP.”
Anyone with information has been asked to contact Derbyshire Police.
In a press release, Derby City Council said: “Derby City Council and all colleagues at the bus station offer their condolences to the family of the victim in this terrible attack. We will continue to help the police with their enquiries in every possible way."
