Two men deny murder of Bexhill cyclist who died five years after ball bearing attack

Tuesday, 10 November 2026 at 14:52

By Philip Keeler

Stephen McMurdo, who died aged 71. Credit: Hampshire and IOW Police

Two men have pleaded not guilty to murdering a 71-year-old cyclist who died more than five years after being struck in the head by a ball bearing in St Leonards.

Stephen McMurdo, from Bexhill, suffered life-changing injuries after being hit while cycling along Bexhill Road on the evening of 10 July 2020.

The impact caused a serious head injury, leaving him paralysed down the left side of his body.

Joshua O'Toole, 29, of Mount Avenue, Maidstone, and Lloyd Powell, 32, of no fixed address, were initially charged with grievous bodily harm in connection with the incident on 28 July 2023.

However, Mr McMurdo died on 22 October 2025, before the case had been heard at court.

O’Toole and Powell now stand accused of the offence of murder.

They appeared before Lewes Crown Court on Tuesday 10 November, where they both pleaded not guilty and were released on court bail until the next hearing on a date to be confirmed.

Stephen’s wife Jaki has released this tribute to him:

“Steve was a wonderful husband, father and brother who loved, supported and understood me. He made me laugh a lot.

“Steve enjoyed being outside either in the garden or walking our dog Cali, he also watched awful B films, either horror or thriller. Steve cycled everywhere; to work, shopping or pleasure.

“We were married for 25 years and although the last five were different, he never lost his sense of humour. We will always miss and love him.”

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