Life for Epsom Killer Who Dragged Liam to Death
Martin Eastwood, 22, from Epsom, was sentenced to life with a minimum of 30 years after a brutal hit-and-run that claimed 25-year-old Liam’s life. The chilling case ended at the Old Bailey on 6 April, following an intense investigation by the Specialist Crime Command.
Speeding Ford S-MAX Dragged Liam for Half a Mile
In the early hours of 26 July 2019, Liam was struck by a Ford S-MAX on Osborne Way, Chessington. The vehicle dragged him under for half a mile before fleeing the scene. The burnt-out car was later found abandoned in Epsom. Despite emergency aid, Liam was pronounced dead at the scene from multiple injuries and evidence of prolonged dragging.
Meticulous Hunt Reveals Convoy of Stolen Cars
Detectives uncovered CCTV footage showing the Ford S-MAX travelling alongside a stolen black BMW and a stolen Volvo V40 earlier in the night. A prior altercation between Liam’s group and occupants of the stolen Volvo outside a local pub escalated tensions, though no injuries were reported then.
Telematics data confirmed the Ford was stationary near Liam before accelerating to strike him. This evidence linked Eastwood firmly to the crime.
Accomplices Caught and Sentenced
- Daniel Morris, 22, pleaded guilty to manslaughter and received five-and-a-half years imprisonment.
- Jasmine Robinson, 19, who helped Eastwood after the crash, was handed a two-year suspended sentence.
Detective Inspector Garth Hall said: “Eastwood is a dangerous man with no regard for life. This sentence reflects the meticulous work of my team to bring justice for Liam and his family.”
Eastwood’s Violent Past
Before this, Eastwood was convicted of two violent offences, including a terrifying attack on a cyclist that left the victim wheelchair-bound for 18 months, plus a violent robbery where a man was stabbed after being deliberately driven into. Both incidents involved stolen vehicles and led to further charges against Eastwood in 2019.
The devastating series of events has left Liam’s family and friends reeling as justice is finally served.
