Andrew Behan admitted in court to the manslaughter of Francis Leitner
18:25, 27 Nov 2025Updated 18:26, 27 Nov 2025
Andrew Behan pleaded guilty to manslaughter in relation to killing his friend Francis Leitner(Image: West Midlands Police)
The heartbroken family of a man who was killed by his ‘friend’ have said they are “still in disbelief.”
Andrew Behan admitted to the manslaughter of Francis Leitner who died in hospital two days before Christmas last year.
Behan and Francis had been to an off-licence in Kingstanding to buy alcohol on the afternoon of December 21 and Behan was seen to headbutt the other man outside the shop.
Read More: Crying killer’s five-word response as he’s jailed for brutal attacks to friend
The pair then took a taxi back to a property in Witton where Behan’s assault on Francis continued, with him grabbing his victim’s phone and punching him.
The 45-year-old was taken to hospital where he was found to have a large bleed on his brain and he sadly died from his injuries on Monday, December 23.
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Behan, aged 41, of Wyrley Road, Aston, was arrested and charged.
At a hearing at Birmingham Crown Court on Friday (1 Nov) he pleaded guilty to manslaughter and yesterday (Wed) he was jailed for six years and seven months.
In tribute to Mr Leitner his family said: “We are still in disbelief, deeply saddened and hope that justice will be served.”
Appearing on a video-link from HMP Hewell in Worcestershire Behan was seen to bow his head and sob throughout the hearing.
After learning his fate Behan said: “I’m sorry to the family.”
Det Insp Michelle Cordell, from West Midlands Police’s Homicide team, said: “The violence Andrew Behan used against Francis Leitner that day was unnecessary, and sadly ended his life.
“Our thoughts remain with Francis’ family and loved ones and I hope today’s sentence offers comfort to them, as they navigate their future without him.”