Drunk Driver Sentenced to 12 Years for Fatal Hit-and-Run Incident
A 37-year-old man has been imprisoned for 12 years after causing the death of a young student in a drunk driving hit-and-run incident. Liam Bowes, from Kelloe, County Durham, admitted to multiple charges including causing death by dangerous driving and perverting the course of justice.
The Tragic Events of October 26
On the early morning of Sunday, October 26 last year, Abigail Eggleston, a 22-year-old student, was crossing the A167 at Neville's Cross using a pedestrian crossing. Bowes, who had consumed approximately eight pints at a 50th birthday party at Langley Park Workingmen's Club, ran a red light in a Volkswagen Golf. He struck Abigail, leaving her fatally injured in the road, and fled the scene without stopping.
Instead of rendering aid, Bowes drove to the home he shared with his mother and spent several hours attempting to cover his tracks. Police later found the Golf abandoned in a layby, where it had been set on fire and suffered significant smoke damage. Bowes initially denied involvement, claiming his car was stolen and that he had gotten a lift home with a stranger, but CCTV evidence contradicted his story.
Court Proceedings and Sentencing
At Teesside Crown Court on Monday, March 2, Bowes pleaded guilty to:
- Causing death by dangerous driving
- Perverting the course of justice
- Driving without insurance
- Failing to stop after a collision
In addition to the 12-year prison term, Bowes was banned from driving for 18 years and must pass an extended driving test before his license can be reinstated. Several victim personal statements from Abigail's family were read during the emotional hearing, describing her as a kind, loving person who prioritized others' happiness.
Family Impact and Police Investigation
Abigail's mother, Mandy, expressed unimaginable grief, stating: "Identifying Abi was the most upsetting and difficult thing I have ever had to do in my life... The trauma and shock I have been caused is unimaginable." She described her daughter as "a beautiful ray of sunshine" whose loss has created an irreplaceable void.
Detective Chief Inspector Mel Sutherland, who led the investigation for Durham Constabulary, commented: "Bowes' actions were not only dangerous and devastating, but cowardly too. After killing Abi, he chose to drive away, leaving her lying in the middle of the road." He emphasized that quick-thinking passers-by prevented further harm to Abigail at the scene.
Three other individuals—two men aged 38 and a 59-year-old woman—were arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender and released on bail pending further police enquiries.
