Farmer cleared after fatal shooting of teenage burglar during farmhouse break-in

A farmer who allegedly shot dead a teenage burglar will not face any charges, prosecutors have said.

Rob Lomas was arrested on suspicion of murder after Marcus Smith, 19, was found dead at a farmhouse in Whaley Bridge, Derbyshire, in May 2024.

Marcus Smith suffered a fatal gunshot wound at a farmhouse in Derbyshire in 2024

The CPS said Rob Lomas will not face charges

Police had been called to reports of a break-in during the early hours when they discovered the footballer.

The teenager was pronounced dead at the scene after having suffered a fatal gunshot wound.

Mr Lomas, in his 50s, was subsequently arrested and has since remained on bail.

But the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) has now decided that a charge will not be brought against the homeowner in relation to the murder.

The CPS said that he had discharged a legally held firearm when confronted with burglars in his home, reports the BBC.

He has been released from bail with no further action being taken by police.

Janine McKinney, chief crown prosecutor for CPS East Midlands, said: “After careful analysis of all the evidence gathered during the police investigation, our prosecutors have decided that there will be no criminal charges in relation to the death of Marcus Smith or the serious injury of another male.

“This decision has been made in accordance with our statutory legal tests as prosecutors and the law surrounding the householder’s rights to defend themself.

“Our thoughts are with Mr Smith’s family and loved ones.”

Meanwhile, Derbyshire Police said three men arrested for burglary at the same property remain on bail.

Another 19-year-old man had also suffered gunshot wounds on the night before he was found nearby and taken to hospital before his arrest.

Divorced dad-of-four Lomas has been described previously as a privately-educated churchgoer.

Soon after the incident, his son set up an online fundraiser that raised more than £60,000 as the family appealed for help.

He said that Mr Lomas has “encountered intruders inside his property, having had a burglary the night prior also”.

He said: “Rob has the most steadfast loyalty you could ever wish for in a father and friend and has always been there for me, and all of his many friends.

“As every farmer does, he works relentlessly in all weathers, but always makes time for a brew and a friendly humorous chat.”

His horrified neighbours believe the shooting appeared to be a “burglary gone wrong”.

Marcus Smith, from Chapel-en-le-Frith, played football for his local club and left behind two brothers.

A family member at the time said his devastated mum Kerry, a nurse, was “grieving for her son”.

Paying tribute on social media, a friend said: “I love you more than life. RIP.”