Hit-and-Run Killer Who Burnt Car to Trash Evidence Jailed for 6½ Years
A reckless driver who smashed into and killed a pedestrian before torching his car to wipe out forensic traces has been locked up. Nathan Clifton, 29, was sentenced to six and a half years in prison.
Crash in Dover Leaves Man Dead
On November 9, 2019, Clifton was hurtling down Frith Road in Dover in a red Peugeot 207 when he slammed into 53-year-old Michael Evans, who was crossing the street. Witnesses said the Peugeot was speeding at around 60mph through local streets.
Mr Evans suffered fatal injuries and died at the scene. But Clifton didn’t stop—he fled the scene and later set fire to the car at a nearby allotment to destroy any evidence linking him to the crash.
Perpetrator Caught After Brazen Police Chase
Police caught up with Clifton two weeks later on November 22, spotting him behind the wheel of another car. When officers tried to pull him over, he bailed and ran—but was quickly Tasered. A knuckleduster was found abandoned nearby.
Clifton later admitted to hitting Mr Evans and confessed he’d been drinking and taking cocaine at a party the night before the fatal smash.
Guilty Pleas and Tough Sentence
Facing the music at Canterbury Crown Court on August 21, Clifton pleaded guilty to multiple charges including:
- Causing death by dangerous driving
- Causing death by driving while disqualified
- Driving while disqualified
- Attempting to pervert the course of justice
- Possession of an offensive weapon
Police Condemn Clifton’s Actions
“Clifton should not have been behind the wheel on the day he knocked down and killed Mr Evans. He certainly shouldn’t have been tearing through a busy town centre,” said Detective Constable Robert Fursey of Kent Police.
“Instead of stopping to help, he fled and tried to cover up his crime. The thorough investigation left him no choice but to plead guilty. We hope the sentence brings some justice for the victim’s family.”
