Driver Sentenced to Eight Years for Fatal New Year’s Day Crash

An individual who was driving at excessive speed has received an eight-year prison sentence following a collision on New Year’s Day that resulted in the death of a teenager. Joshua Craven, aged 22, collided with a vehicle traveling in the opposite direction on the A35, close to Kingston Russell, Dorset, just after 13:30 GMT. Finlay Charles, an 18-year-old from Cornwall who was a passenger in the other vehicle, was declared deceased at the site of the incident. Mr. Craven, residing at Trinity Way, Bridport, admitted his guilt at Bournemouth Crown Court to the charge of causing death by dangerous driving. According to police statements, the black BMW 116 M-Sport driven by the defendant attained speeds reaching 90mph (145km/h) moments prior to the collision. Detectives further stated that Craven was unable to navigate a bend, striking a Toyota Aygo which carried the teenager. This impact caused the Aygo to spin into the trajectory of a Kia Sorento. Police reported that three individuals, including the defendant, were transported to the hospital, though their injuries were not considered life-threatening. While at the hospital, Craven’s system was found to contain a psychoactive component of cannabis, exceeding the legal limit. Police also indicated that his vehicle had a severely worn tire and another tire with a slow puncture, which was likely a substantial contributing factor to the collision. Sgt Gareth Thomas commented: “Joshua Craven’s reckless driving while under the influence of drugs was witnessed by several motorists and appeared to be over a sustained period.” He added: “Our thoughts are very much with the family and loved ones of the man who sadly died.”