Driver High on Cocaine Kills Man in Shocking Crash
Jamie Tarbert, 32, faced Leicester Crown Court yesterday after pleading guilty to causing death by careless driving while over the drug limit. The deadly crash happened on the morning of 22 July 2019 on Rearsby Road, Gaddesby.
Van Hits Car in Fatal Collision
Tarbert, behind the wheel of a Mercedes Sprinter van, smashed into Richard Nicholls’ Skoda Yeti. Both vehicles were hurled off the road in the impact.
Mr Nicholls, 34, was airlifted to University Hospital Coventry but tragically died four days later from his injuries. Tarbert, from Ashleigh Road, Glenfield, walked away with only minor wounds.
Drug Use Confirmed at the Scene
Police arrived to find Tarbert positive for cocaine on a roadside drug wipe. Blood tests confirmed he was under the influence when he crashed.
Justice Served, Driver Banned and Sentenced
Tarbert now faces jail time, a five-year driving ban, and must pass an extended re-test before hitting the road again.
Detective Sergeant Paul Hawkins, lead investigator, said: “I am pleased Tarbert admitted his actions, meaning Mr Nicholls’s family did not have to endure a full court trial. My condolences remain with them at this time. While no prison sentence will bring him back, I hope they feel justice has been done and this brings them some closure.”
