Drunk Driver Jailed for Killing Mate in Horror Crash
Andrew Smalley, 22, from Warton, was slammed with over six years behind bars after a deadly car crash that claimed the life of his passenger, Ashley Donald.
Six Years for Dangerous Driving Death
Smalley appeared at Preston Crown Court where he pled guilty to causing death by dangerous driving. Judge Robert Altham handed him a 6-year 4-month prison sentence. On top of that, Smalley is banned from driving for more than seven years and must pass a re-test before ever getting his licence back.
Booze, Drugs, and Reckless Speed
The nightmare began in the early hours of June 26, 2021, when Smalley left the Chequers social club after downing five pints of Stella and snorting cocaine. Ash sat up front while others crammed into Smalley’s Ford Transit van, loaded with tools and gardening gear.
Witnesses described his driving as wild and dangerous. He blasted along winding Lodge Lane in Warton, braking hard for bends and nearly losing control. Passengers begged him to slow down but blaring music drowned out their warnings.
Fatal Crash on Country Road
Smalley lost control, the van swerved violently, flipped onto its roof, and ended up in a water-filled ditch. Ashley suffered multiple injuries and died shortly after reaching hospital.
“This was a terrible piece of driving that resulted in a young man losing his life,” said Sgt Steve Hardman of Lancashire Police’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit. “Smalley chose to drive after drinking and taking drugs. The consequences were horrifying. Our hearts go out to Ashley Donald’s family.”
Family Speaks Out After Sentence
Ashley Donald’s family released a heartfelt statement:
“The loss of Ashley has devastated all of us. Something will always be missing. We are pleased with how the police and CPS handled the case. No sentence will ever bring Ashley back. We’d like to thank everyone in the community for their help and ask for some privacy at this difficult time.”
