Careless Motorist’s Fatal Error Kills Dad of Three
Matthew Crook, 27, has escaped jail despite causing a deadly crash on the A1 near Newton-on-the-Moor in April 2017. Driving the wrong way, Crook smashed head-on into Barry Carmon’s car, fatally injuring the 33-year-old father of three.
Tragic Crash Sparks Outcry
Barry, from Belford, Northumberland, died at the scene after his car burst into flames. Crook and his female passenger survived with serious injuries. Police arrested Crook on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving.
Lenient Sentence Sparks Family Heartbreak
The Crown Prosecution Service accepted Crook’s plea to causing death by careless driving. Newcastle Crown Court handed him a nine-month suspended sentence. He was also ordered to do 150 hours unpaid work, banned from driving for two years, and must pass an extended driving test to get his licence back.
Northumbria Police’s Sgt Phil Emmerson said, “This has been, and continues to be, a very difficult time for Barry’s family. Getting behind the wheel is not something to be taken lightly — one wrong move can cost someone their life.”
Devastated Family Speak Out
“The impact of this crash will be with us for the rest of our lives. Barry was loved by all of his family and friends and will be incredibly missed,” said Barry’s mum, Carol.
“He had grown into a fine young man and filled us with pride and joy. I will never forget the look on my husband’s face when police broke the terrible news.
“The hardest part was that Barry’s car burst into flames instantly. He was gone in minutes with no chance to say goodbye.”
“Barry won’t see his children grow up or celebrate birthdays and Christmases, but he will always be in our hearts. He was a wonderful son and father.”
