UPDATE: A heartbreaking incident has left an Oswestry man’s life in ruins following a tragic crash involving a drink driver. On October 1, 2023, Nathan Fountain, 29, was riding his motorbike with 17-year-old Ben Worrell on the A458 near Rowton Castle when they were struck by a Range Rover driven by Danny Francis, 29, who had a blood alcohol level significantly over the legal limit.
This devastating crash occurred shortly after midnight as Nathan and Ben returned home from a meal with friends in Newtown, Powys. They were struck when Francis swerved into their lane to avoid a large puddle, leaving Ben dead at the scene and Nathan with life-altering injuries, including the amputation of his left leg and ring finger.
Witnesses confirm that Francis had been drinking heavily at several pubs, including the Old Hand and Diamond Inn, prior to the incident. CCTV footage captured him leaving the Red Lion pub in a Range Rover with multiple passengers, including one reportedly in the boot. After the crash, Francis fled the scene, abandoning the injured motorcyclists.
Police tracked down Francis at approximately 4:00 AM at his partner’s residence in Knockin. He initially claimed to have only consumed one pint, but investigations revealed he had actually consumed 11 pints of cider and two shots over eight hours. A breathalyzer test conducted nearly three hours later showed 27 micrograms of alcohol in his breath, below the legal limit of 35 micrograms; however, back calculations indicated his level could have been between 55 and 111 micrograms at the time of the collision.
On November 28, 2023, Francis was sentenced to seven years in prison after pleading guilty to causing serious injury by dangerous driving. Nathan, who spent two weeks in a coma and underwent 17 surgeries, expressed his anguish in court, stating, “This man has ruined my life and hasn’t shown any remorse from day one.” He described the trauma of being left in pain while worrying about his friend Ben, who tragically lost his life.
“I am so angry that he chose to run away leaving Ben for dead,” Nathan told the court. “He has been able to live his life with no regret or remorse. The not guilty plea boiled my blood.” Nathan, now confined to a wheelchair and enduring “unbearable pain,” highlighted the emotional toll this tragedy has taken on him and his family.
Judge Trevor Meegan condemned Francis’s actions during sentencing, stating, “You did nothing to help. You and the passengers fled the scene leaving the Range Rover behind. It was shameful conduct.” He emphasized that Francis would have to live with the consequences of taking a life for the rest of his days.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of driving under the influence and the devastating impact it can have on innocent lives. As the community mourns the loss of Ben Worrell, Nathan continues to face a long and painful road to recovery.
For those impacted by this tragedy, support networks are essential. Local authorities urge anyone affected to seek help and guidance during this difficult time.
