Christmas Crash Horror: Motorist Jailed After Frosted Windscreen Tragedy
A reckless driver has been jailed for two years after causing life-changing injuries to a pedestrian on Christmas Day last year in Romsey.
Frosted Windscreen Blinded Driver in Shocking Collision
Callum Patrick Darch, 21, from Sutherland Close, was behind the wheel of a Vauxhall Corsa when tragedy struck on Anstey Road on December 25, 2019. Driving with a frosted-up windscreen, Darch mounted the pavement and slammed into a 61-year-old local woman walking by.
The victim suffered catastrophic injuries to both legs. Darch didn’t stop. Instead, he fled the scene — but not before crashing into two parked cars as he made his getaway.
Armed and Dangerous: Knuckle Duster and Baton Found
Police soon found Darch’s abandoned car nearby and arrested him. Shockingly, officers also discovered he was carrying a knuckle duster and an ASP baton.
Darch faced multiple charges including causing serious injury by dangerous driving, failing to stop after the collision, failing to give driver information, and possession of offensive weapons. He pleaded guilty to all counts.
Justice Served: Two Years Inside and Driving Ban
At Southampton Crown Court, Darch was handed a two-year prison sentence and a 36-month driving ban set to begin after his release.
PC Paul Morrison, Roads Policing Unit, said: “Darch indulged in a prolonged and deliberate course of dangerous driving which left a grandmother with life-changing injuries. His selfish actions devastated a family on Christmas Day. We will not tolerate such behaviour and will leave no stone unturned to bring offenders to justice.
“Today’s outcome cannot repair the damage done, but I hope it brings some comfort to the family knowing that Darch has been held to account. His sentence should be a warning to others – it’s not worth the risk.”
