Drunk driver rampages through Southampton, nearly mows down cop
Shocking drink-drive attack during domestic row
Shannah Cave, 30, from Tatwin Crescent, Southampton, pleaded guilty to a string of offences including dangerous driving, criminal damage, and assaulting an emergency worker.
Southampton Crown Court heard that just before 1pm on Saturday 29 February 2020, Cave launched into a domestic dispute on Primrose Road. She kicked the front door of a property, smashing it, then jumped in her car and fled – mounting the pavement and smashing a fence as she sped away.
Cop nearly hit in terrifying escape
Police caught up with Cave on Honeysuckle Road, where a volunteer Special Constable told her to get out of the vehicle. Instead, she floored the accelerator and nearly hit the officer. He had to jump out of the way to avoid being run over.
Cave then tore off towards Eastleigh, coming to a stop on Arnold Road where a member of the public had earlier spotted her drinking alcohol behind the wheel.
Arrest turns violent
Officers found Cave still in the driver’s seat and arrested her for drink-driving. But the chaos wasn’t over. While being escorted to the police van, she assaulted an officer, leading to further charges.
Justice served – but no jail time
On 17 February 2021, Cave was handed a seven-month prison sentence, suspended for 18 months. She must complete 24 days of rehab, 80 hours of unpaid work, and is banned from driving for three years – plus an extended retest.
Detective Constable Caroline Price slammed Cave’s “unacceptable and reprehensible” actions. “She was under the influence, and her aggressive driving endangered not only officers but the public,” Price said.
She praised Special Constable Gebbett’s bravery and public witnesses whose evidence led to the conviction. “We will keep hunting down drink-drivers to protect our communities.”
