Driver Runs Amok at Sainsbury’s, Mows Down Cop and Couple
Damien Price lost it over a one-way row at a Sainsbury’s car park in Pinhoe — then went on a terrifying rampage. After a furious clash with an elderly couple, Price sped into a police officer, sending him flying and shattering his leg.
Shocking Attack Caught on Dashcam
The 30-year-old from Exeter slammed his Ford Fiesta into Sergeant Alex Howden as the officer tried to halt his escape. Bystanders pulled Price from his car and held him until police arrived. While in custody, Price bit another officer’s arm.
Devon and Cornwall Police released dashcam footage revealing the chaos and danger officers face on the job. Price admitted two counts of dangerous driving and causing grievous bodily harm to Sgt Howden. He also pleaded guilty to assaulting the elderly couple and biting Police Constable Nicholas Weston twice.
Six-and-a-Half Years Behind Bars for Dangerous Driver
- Sentenced at Exeter Crown Court by Judge Timothy Rose
- 10-year driving ban, followed by extended driving test
- Five years on licence upon release
Price’s meltdown began when he spotted a Nissan driving the wrong way round the one-way system. After shouting abuse and blocking the couple, he reversed into their car and punched the man through the window. When they dared to exit their vehicle, he knocked them to the ground, causing cuts and bruises.
Hero Cop Left Fighting for a Year to Recover
Sgt Howden, with nearly 22 years on the force, was rushed to hospital with a broken leg, head injury, and bruises. His recovery could take more than a year.
“I don’t hold any animosity towards this individual,” Sgt Howden said. “I’m very fortunate my injury wasn’t far more severe than it was.”
He praised the quick-thinking public: “Their immediate actions were incredibly positive.”
Detective Constable Kerry Murch condemned Price’s actions, saying: “Price used his car as a weapon, similar to the tragic attack on PC Andrew Harper in 2019.”
She thanked the public for their brave intervention. “Their response was overwhelming,” she said.
