Two men jailed over brutal machete attack that left Stockton man dead

Two men have been sentenced after Macaulay Branighan was chased and fatally attacked with a machete in Stockton last year.

On October 12, 2025, Macaulay Branighan, 27, from Stockton, was outside a shop in Hardwick with Samuel Tweddle.

CCTV footage played during the trial showed the pair together shortly before Macaulay was chased along High Newham Road by a group accompanied by a dog.

During the attack, Macaulay was struck with a machete, suffering catastrophic injuries.

He later died as a result of those injuries.

A police investigation led to Stephen Lee Ward, now 26, of Tithe Barn Road, Stockton, being charged with murder, while Samuel Tweddle, now 23, of Kimblesworth Walk, Stockton, was charged in connection with the killing.

Following a trial at Teesside Crown Court, Ward was convicted of murder and Tweddle was convicted of manslaughter.

After the verdicts, Macaulay's family described him as being "loved deeply" and said his loss had "changed our lives forever."

On Friday (Jul 24), Ward was sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 20 years for murder.

Tweddle was sentenced to a total of 13 years in prison for manslaughter.

Upon sentencing, Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Chief Inspector Rachel Taylor, said: “I welcome the sentences for Stephen Ward and Sam Tweddle following the death of Macaulay Branighan.

“Throughout the trial, Ward and Tweddle refused to take any responsibility for their actions. They have shown no remorse for the part they played in the brutal attack which was inflicted on Macaulay Branighan on the evening of Sunday 12th October 2025.

“My thoughts remain firmly with Macaulay Branighan’s family. No outcome can undo the profound loss they have experienced, and the pain of having to endure the details of Macaulay’s death given in evidence throughout the trial. I would like to recognise the immense strength and support they have shown throughout the investigation and court process.

“I would also like to thank those witnesses who had the courage to provide evidence in this case. I recognise that giving evidence in such serious and distressing circumstances can be incredibly difficult, but their bravery in coming forward has been vital in helping to secure justice.”