Callous Driver Jailed for Hit-and-Run that Killed Cyclist on A338
A heartless van driver who fled the scene after smashing into a cyclist has been locked up for three years. Noah Chapman, 23, from Salisbury, pleaded guilty to causing death by careless driving and perverting the course of justice.
Deadly Crash on A338
Chapman was behind the wheel of a white Ford Transit-style van on April 28 at 9.20am when he hit 70-year-old cyclist Richard White on Salisbury’s A338 road. Mr White was badly injured and left lying in the street, but Chapman sped away without stopping.
Richard was rushed to southampton/" title="Southampton" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Southampton General Hospital but tragically died on May 18.
Police Hunt Nets Evidence Against Chapman
The Serious Collision Investigation Unit launched a massive investigation including CCTV footage and mobile phone forensics. Chapman’s efforts to cover his tracks were exhaustive – he ditched the van and phone, gave false statements, and even faked his insurance details and bought a new vehicle to try and escape justice.
Three Years Behind Bars & Ban from the Road
Southampton Crown Court sentenced Chapman to 18 months for causing death by careless driving plus 18 months for perverting the course of justice. The terms run consecutively. He also faces a 5.5-year driving ban.
PC Lucy Hawkins said: “Chapman did everything he could to get away with killing a man – disposing of the vehicle, faking documents, even backdating insurance. But our evidence was overwhelming and he had no choice but to plead guilty.”
“We thank the public and local businesses who helped with CCTV footage. This case shows fleeing the scene doesn’t pay and the serious consequences for those who do.”
