Fatal Crash: Driver on Phone Kills Biker in Shocking Collision
Stuart Powell, 34, was driving his wife’s car on May 12, 2021, when he pulled out in front of a motorcyclist on the B2005 Swale Way, Kemsley, near Milton Creek fishing lake.
Powell, from Miller Close, Kemsley, held only a provisional licence and was caught using his mobile phone at the time of the deadly crash. The biker died at the scene, while his pillion passenger suffered serious injuries.
Hit-and-Run and Lies Follow Tragedy
Two Police Community Support Officers saw the aftermath and told Powell to stay put. Instead, he fled and called his partner, Carly Powell, 36, also from Miller Close. Moments later, Carly falsely reported their car stolen.
The next day, Powell surrendered to police. He admitted involvement but lied, claiming to have lost his phone. Officers discovered the device had been factory reset just days before, but crucially, it contained records proving phone use during the crash.
Justice Served: Jailed for Death by Dangerous Driving
Powell faced charges of death by dangerous driving, causing serious injury, and perverting the course of justice. He pleaded guilty to all counts. Carly Powell admitted perverting the course of justice.
On July 5, 2023, Maidstone Crown Court sentenced Stuart Powell to five years and 10 months in prison—serving half—plus a seven-year driving ban after release. Carly received an eight-month suspended sentence for two years.
Police Condemn Reckless Driving and Deception
“Stuart Powell should never have been behind the wheel, let alone driving and using his mobile phone. His actions caused a man to lose his life, leaving his family to mourn,” said Detective Constable David Holmes of the Serious Collision Investigation Unit.
“The Powells lied to kent.police.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Kent Police and tried to shift blame by falsely claiming their car was stolen. Stuart was fully responsible.
“Nothing can bring back the victim, but I hope this sentence delivers justice and helps the family find some closure.”
