The Case Against Bradley Dusan Fletcher
A professional cage fighter is facing murder charges after allegedly killing his best friend during a sparring session, according to reports. The case has been brought before a Sydney jury, with the accused claiming that the incident was an accident.
Bradley Dusan Fletcher, a 37-year-old mixed martial arts fighter, was celebrating his move into a new rental property in Melonba, near Mount Druitt, with his friend Bradley Evennett in March 2024. Both men were engaging in light sparring and had consumed alcohol and cocaine during the evening.
Crown Prosecutor Kate Ratcliffe stated that the two friends were in a “bubbly mood” when the girlfriend of Fletcher left the premises. However, things took a tragic turn as the situation escalated.
A Tragic Turn of Events
According to Ms. Ratcliffe, the accused became angry and used his martial arts skills during the sparring session. She claimed that Fletcher repeatedly struck the deceased in the head and torso, resulting in Mr. Evennett’s death.
Mr. Evennett, who was 32 years old, had a genetic condition known as brittle bone disease, which was diagnosed when he was 12. Ms. Ratcliffe mentioned that Fletcher was aware of this condition and there had been no prior conflicts between the two friends.
Later that evening, Fletcher called his girlfriend and informed her that Evennett had fallen over and was not breathing. He instructed her to come quickly, rather than calling an ambulance. The girlfriend is expected to testify about the blood-stained floor, Evennett lying face down in the backyard, and Fletcher pacing around the area.
She eventually left, and at some point, Fletcher used Evennett’s car to transport the body and left it near a footpath in a nearby street.
The Accused’s Statement
After his arrest, Fletcher told police that the two were “sparring.” He expressed regret, stating, “I promise you boys it was an accident, man. He’s my best friend… I accidentally killed my best friend. Kicked him in the head.”
Fletcher also mentioned being “coked up” and panicking when he realized Evennett had stopped breathing. He added that Evennett became “a bit hostile” after being hit in the ribs. Fletcher admitted that he should have called the police but panicked instead.
Forensic Evidence and Legal Arguments
The jury is expected to hear from a forensic pathologist who will confirm that the cause of death was multiple blunt force injuries. This expert also stated that Evennett’s condition, Osteogenesis Imperfecta Type 1, did not contribute significantly to his death.
Fletcher pleaded not guilty to murder but admitted guilt for manslaughter. However, the Crown rejected the manslaughter plea.
Defence counsel James Trevallion SC argued that Evennett took exception to being hit in the ribs during the sparring session. He said the men removed their boxing gloves and went inside, but tensions rose, leading them back outside to continue sparring.
Trevallion emphasized that the primary issue during the trial is whether Fletcher intended to cause serious injury. He urged the jury not to morally judge the men for their use of substances, as both were affected by alcohol and cocaine at the time.
The Crown, on the other hand, argues that the “extensive” physical assaults would lead jurors to conclude that there was an intention to cause serious injury. Ms. Ratcliffe stressed that it is the intention at the time of the assault that matters, not the remorse shown afterward.
The Trial Process
Justice Richard Weinstein reminded the jury to listen carefully to all the evidence, closing addresses, and his summing up before making their decision. The trial is expected to last up to four weeks, with the jury needing to determine the outcome based on the presented facts.
