A tentative date for a trial has been arranged for a man facing murder allegations.
Daniel Bassett, who is 26 years old, faces charges in connection with the killing of Tio Day, 37, and the attempted killing of Dylan McEwan. The incident occurred in the early morning of Sunday, April 26 at Moon’s Lodge in Regency Square.
Ambulance and police crews arrived after receiving reports of a physical altercation taking place within the premises. Two males were discovered inside with knife wounds.
Mr Day was pronounced dead at the location while Mr McEwan required hospital treatment.
Officers also responded to a hotel in the vicinity following information that a man had entered the reception area and behaved in a troubling manner.
Bassett, who has no permanent home, was detained and placed in police custody.
Throughout Sunday, an exclusion zone remained in effect outside Moon’s Lodge on Regency Square.
On May 1, Bassett attended Lewes Crown Court in Hove. Judge Christine Laing KC scheduled a provisional commencement date of October 5 for the trial.
The proceedings are expected to span approximately two to three weeks. No plea has been entered as yet.
Bassett was ordered to remain in custody and will return to court on July 24.
Chief Superintendent Adam Hays of Brighton and Hove previously expressed that the force’s sympathies were with Tio’s loved ones during this challenging period. He noted that such devastating occurrences carry profound ramifications, with lives either lost or irrevocably altered, families left to mourn, and neighbourhoods feeling the impact. He stated that officers would persist in their efforts to address knife-related offences within the area and ensure those found culpable face justice.
Family members recall Mr Day as being cherished, inquisitive, and brimming with affection.
His cousin referred to him affectionately as Tia Tia and described him as protective and consistently kind.
He possessed a capacity for deep love, particularly for his siblings, who would carry this void always, with an essential part of them forever absent.
One relative recalled the Tio they knew as considerate, affectionate, and full of awe.
She stated she would always hold onto memories of him as thoughtful, loving, and full of wonder.
She concluded by saying rest well, big brother, and expressing hope that he had found serenity. She noted he would never be forgotten.
Tio’s aunt also contributed a remembrance, describing her heart as filled with questions about a beautiful young man. She recalled his smile and reserved, tender character. She stated he would always remain in her heart and expressed hope that his mother was now looking after him.