Drunk driver jailed after high-speed police chase across two counties
Disqualified Driver Sparks Dangerous Crash in South Ockendon
A disqualified driver caused chaos in South Ockendon after crashing into a moped rider and fleeing the scene. Harmash Bunger, 47, from Strood, Kent, was described as “very drunk” by witnesses leaving a pub on Daiglen Drive.
Within ten minutes, Bunger collided with a moped rider, who was thrown from the bike but luckily suffered only minor injuries.
High-Speed Chase Ends in Crash on A2
Essex Police tried to stop Bunger’s VW Golf, but he refused and rammed a police car, sparking a 20-minute pursuit from South Ockendon all the way to the A2 in Kent.
The dramatic chase ended when Bunger crashed into another marked police vehicle while trying to exit the A2. Officers arrested him on the spot. He then refused to provide a breath specimen, adding to his long list of offences.
Seven Charges and a 16-Month Jail Sentence
At court on April 23, Bunger pleaded guilty to seven offences:
- Dangerous driving
- Failing to stop at the scene of an accident
- Refusing to provide a specimen for analysis
- Driving while disqualified
- Driving without insurance
- Careless driving
- Failing to stop when requested by police
He was sentenced to 16 months in prison and banned from driving for 44 months. Bunger must also pass an extended driving test to regain his licence.
Police Slam Reckless Behaviour
Adam Pipe, Head of Roads Policing in Essex, condemned Bunger’s actions:
“This is a particularly horrifying piece of dangerous driving which put other road users at risk. Bunger has displayed a flagrant disregard for the safety of himself and others. He ignored officers’ repeated attempts to stop him, and this criminal behaviour was only stopped by our officers’ quick reactions. Somebody could have easily been killed or seriously injured. We will not tolerate this type of driving in Essex.”
