A farmer who shot and killed a teenager during a suspected burglary at his remote Peak District farm will not face criminal charges, prosecutors announced Tuesday.
Rob Lomas, 52, was arrested on suspicion of murder after 19-year-old Marcus Smith was found dead at the property near Whaley Bridge, Derbyshire, in May 2024. Police had responded to reports of a break-in at the farm shortly after 1:20 a.m.
Officers discovered Mr. Smith with fatal injuries inside the property. Another man was found seriously injured on the road outside and was arrested on suspicion of aggravated burglary. A third suspect was apprehended later that morning in a vehicle on the A6. Police had reportedly been called to investigate a break-in at the same farm the previous day.
Janine McKinney, Chief Crown Prosecutor for CPS East Midlands, stated that after a thorough review of the evidence, prosecutors concluded there would be no criminal charges against Mr. Lomas. The decision was made in accordance with legal tests and laws regarding a householder's right to self-defense when confronted by intruders. "Our thoughts are with Mr. Smith's family and loved ones," McKinney said.
Three men are expected to face proceedings for burglary in relation to the incident and the previous night's break-in at the same property. The law permits individuals to use reasonable force to defend themselves, others, and their property when under threat.
Following his arrest, Mr. Lomas' son initiated a fundraising campaign under the hashtag #freethefarmer to support his family. In a statement, he described his father as loyal and hardworking, noting that the encounter with intruders occurred after a burglary the night before.
Marcus Smith was a former student of Chapel-en-le-Frith High School and a player for local club Chapel Town FC. Tributes described him as a kind and polite individual. The case draws parallels to the 1999 incident involving Tony Martin, a farmer who shot and killed a teenage intruder. Martin was convicted of murder and manslaughter, later released, and passed away in 2023. That case sparked a national discussion about homeowners' rights. 
