Hit-and-Run Driver Who Killed Pedestrian and Torched Car Jailed
Deadly Crash in Dover
Nathan Clifton, 29, has been locked up for six and a half years after killing a pedestrian in a reckless hit-and-run in Dover.
On November 9, 2019, Clifton was behind the wheel of a red Peugeot 207 speeding down Frith Road when he slammed into 53-year-old Michael Evans, who was crossing the road. Witnesses said the car was doing up to 60mph – far too fast for town streets.
Fleeing Justice and Destroying Evidence
Instead of stopping to help, Clifton sped off. Later that day, he drove the wrecked Peugeot to an allotment and set it ablaze, hoping to erase any forensic traces linking him to the crash.
Just weeks later, police spotted Clifton driving another vehicle in town. When officers tried to stop him, he bolted but was quickly Tasered and caught. Nearby, officers found a discarded knuckleduster – yet another crime to add to his list.
Drugs, Drink, and a Host of Charges
During police questioning, Clifton admitted crashing into Mr Evans. He also revealed he’d taken cocaine and alcohol the night before the tragic incident.
At Canterbury Crown Court, he pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving, driving while disqualified, attempting to pervert the course of justice, and possession of an offensive weapon.
Justice Served
Detective Constable Robert Fursey said: “Clifton should not have been behind the wheel on the day he killed Mr Evans. He was driving dangerously through a busy town centre and then tried to avoid responsibility by fleeing and destroying evidence. The investigation left him no choice but to plead guilty. We hope this sentence brings some comfort to the victim’s family.”
Clifton, formerly from Shipmans Way, Dover, now faces years behind bars for his deadly actions.
