After a day of alcohol consumption, Shane Bovey, 41, tragically ended the life of a grandmother and severely wounded two others, including an infant, by crashing into them at a high velocity.
Bovey had spent his afternoon at a pub in Lyme Regis, Dorset, starting around 2.10 pm on 8 February and demonstrated signs of agitation while being transported by another individual at around 7.30pm.
Following a dispute, both the driver and Bovey exited the vehicle. Seizing the opportunity, Bovey took possession of the Mercedes CLK 320 keys and swiftly drove away.
Witnesses reported that Bovey was driving recklessly at an estimated 60mph in a 30mph zone in Mosterton, where he lost control while navigating a left curve.
The vehicle slammed into Nicole Bowden, 48, her daughter, Emily Fox-Williams, 24, and a nearly one-year-old boy in a stroller, as they strolled along the B3066 where the speed limit was set at 30mph.
A fire broke out in the car post-crash. Bystanders rushed to assist the victims until the arrival of the emergency services.
The trio were urgently airlifted to Southmead Hospital in Bristol. Unfortunately, Bowden succumbed to her injuries the following day. Fox-Williams is still hospitalised, grappling with life-altering injuries. The infant, despite his serious injuries, has been discharged.
According to Dorset Police, Bovey displayed aggressive behaviour and evident intoxication, and he left the crash scene before the officers’ arrival.
He was discovered in a nearby backyard shortly after, thanks to a tip-off by the property owner. Bovey was arrested and treated for a fractured sternum at the hospital.
Bovey, a resident of Yeovil, was sentenced to 14 years in prison at Bournemouth Crown Court after pleading guilty to causing a fatal car accident, inflicting severe injury by reckless driving, and unlawfully seizing a vehicle without the owner’s consent.
Following his incarceration, Bovey will face a driving ban of 10 years.
Sergeant Jay Griffin of Dorset Police’s traffic unit expressed his regret over the incident, stating that Bovey’s actions had led to a heartbreaking loss and inflicted serious harm upon two others. He further stressed the inherent risks of driving under the influence, emphasising the tragic consequences that can ensue.
As a cautionary note, the legal alcohol limit for driving varies across the UK. Authorities recommend refraining from driving after consuming any amount of alcohol due to the influence of various factors. Penalties for drink-driving offenses can be severe, ranging from fines and driving bans to imprisonment. Convictions can also lead to increased car insurance costs and appear on licenses. However, a drink-drive rehabilitation scheme course might potentially reduce a driving ban if offered by the court.
About Carl Millar
Carl Millar is a highly respected and experienced drink driving solicitor who is the principal of Millars Solicitors.
Carl has been a specialist in road traffic law for many years and represents clients from all walks of life and all over the Country. He is well known for the dogged defending of his clients and robust cross examination of police officers and exert witnesses.
With a wealth of expertise in motoring law Carl is well placed to provide advice over the phone and deal with all road traffic matters in a calm and professional way.
Getting in contact with Carl and Millars Solicitors is really easy. You can call him FREE on 0800 999 5535, or click here to send a confidential message.
