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Drunk Driver Smashes Into Pensioner, Killing Him in Eynsford
Maurice McAnallen guzzled as many as five pints before crashing his Range Rover into a 62-year-old dog walker in Eynsford earlier this year.
Deadly Crash on Eynsford High Street
The 63-year-old, who had been drinking at a football club in Chislehurst that afternoon, left around 6.30pm and got behind the wheel. Just 35 minutes later, his car swerved onto the wrong side of Eynsford High Street. He mounted the pavement, striking Andrew Miller, who was out walking his dog.
The impact hurled the car into two parked vehicles. Emergency crews rushed to the scene but Mr Miller died instantly.
Erratic Driving Before Fatal Crash
Police investigations revealed McAnallen had driven dangerously on several roads, including the A20 near Swanley. Witnesses said his vehicle swerved between lanes and even climbed a grass bank before returning to the road.
He failed a roadside breathalyser test and was arrested. Blood tests later showed his blood alcohol level was 199mg per 100ml of blood—more than twice the legal limit of 80mg.
Jail Time and Driving Ban
McAnallen, from Stead Close, Chislehurst, pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving and drink-driving at Maidstone Crown Court. On 2 November, he was sentenced to four years and two months behind bars.
Once released, he will be banned from driving for six years and one month, with an extended driving test required before he can regain his licence.
DC Dawn Smith, of the Serious Collision Investigation Unit, said: “Maurice McAnallen made the decision to get behind the wheel of his car, knowing full well he had consumed far too much alcohol to be able to drive. His intoxicated state meant he was driving what was essentially a loaded and lethal weapon.”
“The consequences of his reckless actions have had tragic consequences, which will no doubt cause profound and enduring pain to Andrew’s family. Drink driving can and does ruin lives. While no sentence will ever compensate Andrew’s family for their loss, I hope that today can at least bring some closure for them at this difficult time.”
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