A reckless driver who caused a deadly collision on a busy road has been locked up for eight years. Louie Everitt, 25, sped and swerved dangerously before crashing head-on into Tony Daniels’ car, killing him instantly.
Crash on A29 Shripney Road Leaves One Dead, Two Injured
The crash happened on the evening of 26 June 2024 on the A29 Shripney Road, Bognor Regis. Tony Daniels, 46, from Felpham, was driving northbound with his wife Jade when their vehicle was smashed by Everitt’s black Audi A3 coming the opposite way.
Despite desperate efforts by witnesses and paramedics, Tony was pronounced dead at the scene. Jade suffered serious injuries and was rushed to hospital, along with Everitt, who also sustained injuries.
Witnesses Report Speeding and Dangerous Driving
- Witnesses said Everitt was speeding, tailgating, and overtaking recklessly shortly before the crash.
- One described his driving as “like a lunatic,” far exceeding the 40mph speed limit — estimated speeds were between 60-100mph.
- Upon police arrival, Everitt smelled heavily of alcohol but refused to provide blood or saliva samples for testing.
Justice Served After Guilty Plea
Everitt was charged with causing death by dangerous driving, driving uninsured, and refusing to give a sample for analysis. At Portsmouth Crown Court on 23 December, he pleaded guilty and received an eight-year sentence, reduced from 12 years thanks to his early plea.
He must serve at least two-thirds of his sentence behind bars and will face a five-year driving ban starting from his release.
“Tony was laid back, kind and funny, and is missed every day,” the judge said. “This tragedy was entirely predictable because of Everitt’s reckless, intoxicated speeding.”
Wife’s Heartbreaking Tribute to Tony Daniels
Jade Daniels, married to Tony since 2021, paid a moving tribute:
“Antony (Tony Tiger) was the heart of our family. His laughter filled our home and his kindness touched everyone. The loss left silence that feels heavy — a space that never fills.
“To the driver who chose to drive impaired, your decision has changed our lives forever. Eight years is nothing compared to the life sentence we carry. Tony will always be missed, loved, and never forgotten.”
This tragic case highlights the deadly consequences of drinking and dangerous driving. Everitt’s reckless choice ended a life and devastated a family forever.
