North East Drivers Face Justice for Fatal Collisions Through Bad Driving

Some drivers in the area were prosecuted because they caused fatal accidents and their actions led to people’s deaths. The courts have dealt with these cases. These incidents happened in the North East, and people lost their lives because of them. The drivers’ carelessness hurt families, and now, they face punishment for what they did.

David Stewart drove recklessly on a motorcycle, speeding to get away from the police. He killed his friend, Lee Stevenson, who was his passenger, in Peterlee. Stewart crashed into a roundabout, and Stevenson died at the scene.

Stewart had cocaine in his system, resulting in an eleven-year prison sentence.

Owen Rutherford was speeding in Birtley when he crashed into a family’s car hard. David Hain, the driver, died, and Hain’s daughter had severe brain injuries, leaving her unable to communicate. Hain’s wife also sustained serious injuries, and their dog, Millie, died.

Rutherford, who had cocaine in his system, received a sentence of eleven years and four months.

Ryan Elsender was speeding in Newcastle when he hit Jayden McGuinness, a teen on a bike, who later died from his injuries. Elsender was driving at 71 mph in a 30 mph zone. He had the victim’s cousin and a toddler in the vehicle.

Elsender was sentenced to eight years in jail.

Sophie Waugh was using social media when she hit Ian Morris, a 71-year-old grandfather, who was riding his bike. The crash occurred near Thirsk. Waugh was a soldier at the time of the accident and received a sentence of six years and eight months.

She also received a driving ban.

John Butters carelessly reversed his van and hit John Rowe, who was on a mobility scooter, in Newcastle. Rowe later died from his injuries, which included pneumonia and a brain injury. Butters received a suspended sentence of 41 weeks, suspended for two years.