A man charged with the murder of rugby league star Danny Kirkmond's brother died on his birthday while on remand in Leeds prison, it has been confirmed.
Lee David Robinson, of Fryston Road, Castleford, died shortly after December 11 at HMP Leeds. He turned 39 years old on the day.
Robinson was charged with the murder of Jack Kirmond who died after being assaulted outside Sharlston Rovers Rugby Club in Weeland Road, Wakefield. Jack was the younger brother of ex-super league star Danny Kirkmond who made more than 200 Super League appearances for Wakefield and Huddersfield and represented England once.
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His family paid tribute to him at the time stating he was an "amazing son, fiancé, brother, uncle and friend". They also revealed he was a "soldier who served his country and a protector of everyone who knew him, not just in his job but in his life.”
Reports state that a short hearing took place at Leeds Crown Court this week but the case was discontinued after it was confirmed he had died. A spokesperson for West Yorkshire Police said that his death was established as not being suspicious.
A force spokesman said: “Shortly after 3:15pm on December 11, police were informed of the sudden death of Lee David Robinson, a remand prisoner at HMP Leeds. The cause of death was established as not being suspicious and a file has been prepared for the West Yorkshire Coroner.
“Mr Robinson was charged with the murder of Jack Kirmond, aged 33, who died on August 8 after being assaulted outside Sharlston Rovers Rugby Club in Weeland Road, Wakefield.”
A Prison Service spokesperson said: “HMP Leeds prisoner Lee David Robinson died on December 11. As with all deaths in custody, the Prisons and Probation Ombudsman will investigate it.”
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