Crawley Murder Case Concludes as Jason Curtis Convicted of Manslaughter

A complex and lengthy court case connected to the killing of Harrison Tomkins in Crawley has reached its conclusion, after Jason Curtis was found guilty of manslaughter following a retrial. The 25-year-old victim died after suffering multiple stab wounds during an incident in the early hours of 13 August 2023 at a block of flats […]

A complex and lengthy court case connected to the killing of Harrison Tomkins in Crawley has reached its conclusion, after Jason Curtis was found guilty of manslaughter following a retrial.

The 25-year-old victim died after suffering multiple stab wounds during an incident in the early hours of 13 August 2023 at a block of flats on Arthur Road. Emergency services, including paramedics, attended the scene within minutes of the attack at around 5.30am and attempted life-saving treatment. Despite their efforts, Tomkins, who worked as a lifeguard, tragically died at the scene.

Curtis, now 24, of Lairdale Road in London, was sentenced to nine years in prison after a jury at Lewes Crown Court found him guilty of manslaughter on Friday 20 March. He had previously been convicted of murder alongside co-defendant Kaydon Prior, but successfully appealed that conviction, leading to a retrial.

Prior, aged 25, of Hazelwick Avenue in Crawley, had already been sentenced to 28 years’ imprisonment after being found guilty of murder, possession of an offensive weapon, and common assault. Curtis was initially sentenced to 22 years before his appeal resulted in the partial overturning of his convictions.

The court heard that the two men had been in Chelsea celebrating Curtis’s birthday before returning to Crawley in the early hours of the morning. During the journey, they became aware that Prior’s ex-girlfriend was in Crawley town centre with Tomkins.

CCTV evidence showed the pair outside a local venue before travelling to Arthur Road. Prosecutors told the court that Prior later returned home briefly before going back to the address, where both men forced entry into the flat.

Moments later, Tomkins was fatally stabbed multiple times. A major investigation was launched by officers from Sussex Police in collaboration with specialist units, including the use of a drone. Curtis was found hiding in bushes nearby and was arrested at the scene, while Prior was detained shortly afterwards at his home.

During sentencing, the judge remarked that Curtis had significant time to reflect on his actions since the incident but showed little remorse. The court also acknowledged the strength and dignity of Tomkins’ family throughout the proceedings.

In a victim impact statement read in court, the family described the killing as “senseless” and “catastrophic”, highlighting the profound and lasting impact on their lives. They paid tribute to Tomkins as a caring individual who dedicated his career to helping others in roles including education, prison service work, and as a lifeguard.

Detective Constable Elliott Lander, of the Major Crime Team at Sussex Police, described the investigation as “long and arduous”, expressing hope that the conclusion of the case would provide some closure for the family.

He also praised the professionalism of all those involved in bringing the case to court and reaffirmed the force’s commitment to pursuing justice for victims and their loved ones.

The case has been one of significant public interest in the local area, reflecting both the seriousness of the offence and the extensive police and judicial response required to bring it to a conclusion.