Man Jailed for Deadly 100mph Crash and Brutal Attack
Mathew Gardiner, 35, has been locked up for 13-and-a-half years after killing a cyclist and seriously injuring another man in two shocking incidents.
Speeding Drunk Driver Kills Cyclist
Gardiner, also known as George Gardiner, was tearing down the A2690 Combe Valley Way near Bexhill at around 100mph on 26 May 2019. High on drink and drugs, he overtook two cars recklessly before smashing into 53-year-old cyclist Antoney Colley.
Colley, a night security officer from Bexhill, died at the scene. Tests revealed Gardiner was drunk and drugged, admitting a binge of 15-20 pints and cocaine the day before. The construction worker then refused to answer police questions.
Violent Assault Adds to His Crimes
While awaiting trial for the fatal crash, Gardiner was caught on CCTV attacking a 46-year-old man in hastings/" title="Hastings" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Hastings. The victim was punched to the face, fell, hit his head, and suffered life-changing injuries, including almost total loss of vision.
Gardiner pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving and grievous bodily harm.
Harsh Sentence and Stark Warning
At Lewes Crown Court, Gardiner was sentenced to 13 years and six months behind bars. He was also banned from driving for 12-and-a-half years and will face an extended driving test if he ever gets back behind the wheel.
“This man has destroyed the lives of two people through his flagrant violation of the law and public safety,” said Acting Inspector Dan Pitcher from Sussex Roads Policing Unit. “His speeding and drug-driving posed a grave risk that ended in tragedy and permanent injury.”
“We hope this sentence brings closure to the victims’ families and serves as a warning. Speeding, drink and drug-driving, mobile phone use, not wearing seatbelts, and careless driving are the top causes of fatal crashes in Sussex. Don’t let a journey become your last.”
