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An alarming incident on the A2 in Gravesend left several injured victims, with the responsible driver fleeing the scene without providing assistance.
Matthew Sparkes, driving an Audi S3 Quattro on the coastbound carriageway of the A2, made a sudden lane change from the outside to the inside lane. In the process, his vehicle collided with the rear of a Ford Fiesta, causing it to spin across the carriageway and strike another vehicle. Despite the chaos, Sparkes continued driving for another 500 meters before colliding with a barrier.
Following the collision, Sparkes abandoned his vehicle and left the scene without checking on the condition of the other individuals involved.
Three women in the Ford sustained injuries and were transported to the hospital for treatment. Tragically, one of them suffered life-changing injuries, necessitating ongoing medical care.
A subsequent forensic examination of the Audi led to the recovery of Sparkes’ DNA and fingerprint. Police issued a public appeal for witnesses, identifying Sparkes as a person of interest. He was apprehended on February 19 at North Kent Police Station.
Subsequently, Sparkes, a resident of Eskdale Road, Bexleyheath, Greater London, was charged and later pleaded guilty at Woolwich Crown Court to charges of dangerous driving and driving without insurance.
In a sentencing hearing yesterday, the 35-year-old was handed a prison sentence of three years and 11 months, which included the activation of a previously suspended sentence. Additionally, Sparkes will face a disqualification from driving for seven years and 10 months upon his release from prison, along with the requirement to undertake an extended driving test.
PC Lee Berridge, from Kent Police’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit, condemned Sparkes’ actions, emphasizing the reckless disregard for the safety of other road users. Berridge praised the victims for their assistance in building the case against Sparkes, ultimately leading to his conviction.
The incident underscores the importance of responsible and lawful driving behaviour, with severe consequences for those who choose to endanger others on the road.
