Unfortunately: "Mr Batterham and a 32-year-old friend became involved in a fight with Mr Slater, which continued outside on the street" That means that the guy was running away, so was no longer a threat to -- or a reason for violence from -- the homeowner and his "32-year-old friend". If someone is threatening your safety, you may defend yourself. If someone is running away, you may not murder them.
I wanna be a eunuchs developer! Pass me a bread knife!
