A heartless hit-and-run driver in Wolverhampton killed a man with a 'heart of gold' and then embarked on a callous cover-up, attempting to frame an innocent person for the crime.
A Fatal Collision and a Cowardly Flight
Aden Wright, 27, was behind the wheel of his VW Golf on August 21 last year when he collided with Ryan Griffiths on Burleigh Road. The impact left Mr Griffiths motionless in the road. Despite stopping briefly to pick up a passenger, Wright made the decision to drive away, abandoning Ryan for dead.
Emergency services rushed Ryan to hospital, but the injuries he sustained were too severe. He tragically passed away two days after the incident.
A Web of Deceit and a Failed Cover-Up
In the aftermath, Wright's actions grew increasingly calculated. He did not report the collision and instead set about concealing his involvement. He enlisted others to help take the vehicle off the road and even changed the ownership into someone else's name.
Most shockingly, Wright then tried to persuade family members to help him frame that same individual as the driver responsible for the fatal crash. He maintained this lie to police, who had strong evidence proving he was the driver.
Justice for Ryan Griffiths
A major police investigation was launched, leading to Wright's arrest within a week. The court heard that Wright had been in the area attempting to buy drugs using counterfeit money. When the fake cash was discovered, he sped away, leading to the collision with Ryan.
Following a trial at Birmingham Crown Court, Aden Wright was found guilty of causing death by dangerous driving on October 31. He is now awaiting sentencing.
Detective Sergeant Jeanette Roberts stated that securing justice for Ryan and his family had been their priority, condemning Wright's 'callous actions' which caused 'unimaginable pain'.
In a moving tribute, Ryan's family described him as a loving and devoted son, brother, and uncle. They said, 'He had a heart of gold and a lot of loving friends. Everyone is devastated by his sad loss and he will be sadly missed.'
