Reckless Drug-Driver Jailed for Fatal Crash That Killed Pensioner
BMW Driver Causes Deadly Collision While Over Cocaine Limit
Max Anderson, 30, from Priors Acre, Boxgrove near Chichester, has been slammed with a six-year prison sentence for a fatal crash. The 30-year-old was behind the wheel of a BMW when he recklessly overtook a bus on Kennel Road near Goodwood. Losing control, Anderson crashed head-on with another car, killing 68-year-old Donald Sutherland from Bognor.
High Cocaine Levels at Time of Crash
Tests revealed Anderson had 79 microgrammes of benzoylecgonine, a cocaine breakdown chemical, per litre of blood—well above the legal limit of 50. Despite overwhelming evidence, he denied knowing about the drug in his system and insisted he was a careful driver.
Victim Dies After Five Days in Hospital
Emergency crews rushed Sutherland to hospital, but he sadly succumbed to his injuries after five days. His tragic death underscores the deadly risk of drug-driving crashes, a growing problem across Sussex.
Details from Portsmouth Crown Court
At Portsmouth Crown Court, Anderson admitted causing death by dangerous driving. The court heard that after overtaking the bus, Anderson’s BMW skidded across the road, hitting a road sign and embankment before hitting Sutherland’s vehicle. Notably, Anderson had been previously warned against driving due to his drug history but ignored this advice and got behind the wheel intoxicated.
Harsh Sentence: Jail Time and Driving Ban
- 6 years imprisonment
- 9-year driving disqualification
- Mandatory extended driving retest before returning to the road
Police Warn Against Drug-Driving Dangers
Sussex Police have highlighted this case to warn drivers about the dangers of driving under the influence of drugs. Detective Constable Dave Symonds from the Serious Collision Investigation Unit said:
“Anderson lost control and caused a fatal collision on our roads. This is a tragic case for all involved, linked to the consumption of drugs and alcohol. It serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of drug driving.”
