Tony Martin, Farmer Who Shot Teenage Burglar in 1999, Dies Aged 80

Tony Martin, known for shooting and killing a teenage burglar in 1999, has passed away at 80, years after serving jail time for manslaughter.

Tony Martin, the Norfolk farmer who gained national attention after shooting and killing a teenage burglar in 1999, has died aged 80. Martin shot Fred Barras, 16, and Brendan Fearon, 29, during a burglary at his home in Emneth Hungate, Norfolk.

Martin fired a shotgun at the intruders, killing Barras and injuring Fearon, who was later treated in hospital.

Martin was initially convicted of murder, but the charge was reduced to manslaughter on appeal.

He served three years in jail before being released in 2003. The case sparked public debate over self-defence rights and whether Martin’s actions were proportionate.

A close friend confirmed Martin's death on Sunday afternoon at Wisbech Hospital in Cambridgeshire, following a recent stroke.

The incident led to widespread media coverage, including a Channel 4 drama about Martin’s case.

Despite the controversy, Martin maintained in interviews that he did not regret his actions, although he acknowledged that Barras did not deserve to die.