Teen Brothers Imprisoned for Savage Killing That Left Liverpool Reeling

A harrowing case of brutality has shaken the Liverpool community to its core, reigniting concerns about youth violence and the vulnerability of society’s most marginalized. Two teenage brothers, Connor and Brandon Doran, along with their accomplice Simon Evans, have been found guilty in the shocking and fatal assault of 53-year-old Kevin Bennett — a man experiencing homelessness.

The unprovoked attack, described by prosecutors as “prolonged and senseless,” took place while Mr. Bennett was sleeping rough behind a supermarket in the County Road area. He had spent the earlier part of the evening in a nearby pub before settling in for the night. What followed was a 20-minute onslaught of violence that would leave him gravely injured and, ultimately, cost him his life.

The Night Everything Changed

On the night of August 17, 2012, Kevin Bennett was targeted while resting in a dimly lit alley. The attackers — all minors at the time — appeared to view the vulnerable man as an easy mark. According to court documents, Connor Doran incited the violence, instructing Simon Evans to “go ahead” with the assault, while Brandon Doran stood nearby, acting as lookout.

Evans reportedly delivered repeated, forceful blows to Mr. Bennett’s head and body. Despite suffering catastrophic injuries, the victim managed to stumble toward the front of the store before collapsing. He was rushed to the hospital, but after six days of fighting for his life, complications from an infection ultimately claimed him.

A Family Entwined in Crime

What makes the case even more disturbing is the broader pattern of violence tied to the Doran family. During the trial, it emerged that the older brother of Connor and Brandon, 23-year-old Ryan Doran, was awaiting his own murder trial, charged in connection with the death of Wayne Mitchell — a 42-year-old man killed in an unrelated but similarly senseless act of violence.

The family’s matriarch, Linda Doran, was also convicted after it was revealed she attempted to cover up her sons’ involvement by providing a false alibi to police. Her obstruction of justice added another layer of heartbreak for the victim’s family and community. Meanwhile, yet another sibling, Jordan Doran, was reprimanded and sentenced for contempt of court after taking unauthorized photos during the trial proceedings.

A City in Shock, A System in Question

The horrific details of the attack — including the age of the perpetrators and the vulnerability of the victim — sparked public outrage and soul-searching across Liverpool. Advocates for the homeless expressed deep sorrow, noting that Kevin Bennett, like many in his position, had already been let down by the system long before the attack.

“This was a man who needed protection, not punishment,” one outreach volunteer remarked. “He was sleeping in the cold and trying to survive. That his final moments were filled with violence is something this city will not forget.”

Justice Served, But Questions Remain

The sentencing of Connor and Brandon Doran, along with Simon Evans, brought a measure of legal closure. But for many in the community, the emotional wounds remain raw. How could teenagers carry out such cruelty? What failures — familial, societal, institutional — allowed this to happen?

As Liverpool reflects on this tragedy, local leaders are calling for renewed investment in youth programs, mental health services, and violence prevention initiatives.

Kevin Bennett’s life may have ended in darkness, but his death has shone a light on issues that can no longer be ignored.