Every day, I make my son’s bed in the hope that he’ll come home – after he died from a single punch

Dawn McGurty experienced unbearable heartbreak when her son, Jake Rainton, was killed by a single punch from a stranger named Ryan Patient. Jake, at 23 years old, was attacked out of nowhere, and his mother has kept his bedroom exactly as it was on the day he died. She changes his bed weekly, hoping he will come home again. Jake was a kind and caring boy who had a love for horses and dreamed of owning his horse training yard.

Jake’s love for horses began at a young age, and he worked hard to pursue his passion. He was not one for partying and drinking and was happiest when he was with his horses. In July last year, after visiting the Yorkshire Show with his girlfriend, Jake was attacked outside a bar by Ryan Patient, who was heavily intoxicated. The unprovoked punch led to Jake’s unconsciousness and eventual death, devastating his family and friends. Patient was found guilty of manslaughter and sentenced to 10 years in prison.

The court heard that Jake and Patient’s groups had a brief interaction that did not involve any violence or threats. Patient suddenly punched Jake without warning or provocation, causing him to fall and hit his head. Patient claimed he was scared and acting on instinct when he threw the fatal punch. The devastating consequences of a single moment’s madness were emphasized by Det Insp Jodie Hayes, who highlighted the tragic outcome of a reckless act of violence. Dawn faced the unimaginable pain of seeing her son with a serious skull fracture and brain bleeds, leading to the decision to switch off his life support.

Jake’s funeral was a reflection of his love for horses, as he was carried in a horse-drawn carriage and had flowers shaped like his favorite pony. Dawn shared how the sight of her son’s open chest after procedures on his body was a haunting image that she would never forget. The court case and sentencing of Patient provided some closure for Dawn and her family, highlighting the devastating impact of senseless violence and the importance of thinking before acting impulsively. Dawn hopes that Jake’s legacy can serve as a reminder for others to stop and consider the consequences before resorting to violence.