“He remained young at heart, a vibrant soul whose spirit didn’t fit his age”
The family of a Co Antrim man have remembered him as a “gentle giant” and “vibrant soul” one year on from his death after being allegedly attacked.
Tony Miskimmon, 74, was approached in the Station Road area of Antrim at around 7.30pm on November 2, 2024, by a male and female. He was punched to the head by the male, knocking him unconscious.
Mr Miskimmon was taken to hospital for treatment for serious head injuries. He passed away on November 6, 2024.
READ MORE: Pensioner who died after single punch was trying to help woman being hassled by accusedREAD MORE: Man denies manslaughter of Co Antrim pensioner
Ahead of the first anniversary of Mr Miskimmon’s death, in a statement issued to Belfast Live, his family have paid tribute to him, remembering his gentle personality and love for music and history. They said they are “hopeful that justice will be served.”
They said: “Tony was a devoted father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend. Everyone who had the pleasure of meeting him would describe him as a gentle giant.
“He was a well respected member of the Belfast, Isle of Man, and Antrim communities which he proudly called home over his life. After serving as a seaman he spent the later years of his life working as a tattooist.
“He lived a quiet and peaceful life, with a keen interest in music and history, often spending his days watching classic films. Known for his flair for fashion, he was easily recognised around town wearing his trademark hats.
“Despite his years in numbers he remained young at heart, a vibrant soul whose spirit didn’t fit his age. Whilst his family and friends continue to grieve his loss it is made even more difficult with the ongoing court proceedings reminding them of Tony’s untimely passing. We are hopeful that justice will be served in the coming months.”
Marcus Fleming, 22, of Cedarmount in Antrim, appeared at Belfast Crown Court on October 17 to be formally arraigned on three charges he faced. He entered guilty pleas to two charges of criminal damage to police vehicles on November 2 and November 3, 2024.
However, he entered a “not guilty” plea to the manslaughter of Mr Miskimmon. The case has been adjourned until November 28, 2025, for review.
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