Five years for killing his pal

A KILLER drinker has been jailed after his “aggressive” push claimed the life of his “gentle” best pal.

- By ESTHER HALLIGAN

Rhyan Cooper, 29, had jabbed Thomas Tierney with a straw, and put his empty pint glass on his friend’s head as they sat in the Blue Post pub in Stockton, on Friday, September 1, 2023.

He poured the drink Mr Tierney, 54, had bought him on the floor, under the table - in an effort to end the night.

He kept moving Mr Tierney’s drink away from him, to frustrate his friend.

A member of the door staff warned him to behave. Cooper then knocked his pal’s drink as Mr Tierney was holding it, frustrated because he wanted to go home and his friend wasn’t ready.

The drink splashed over Mr Tier-ney, who retaliated by pouring the remainder of his pint over Cooper.

Door staff noticed what was going on, and ejected both men from the pub. Mr Tierney walked out of the alleyway and onto Stockton High Street.

Cooper followed behind and called his friend’s name, and as Mr Tierney turned around, Cooper shoved him in the chest with both hands. Mr Tierney fell, hitting his head on the ground.

Two women who were enjoying a night out, saw what had happened while doorstaff from The Blue Post went to help.