Racing Drivers Jailed After Fatal Crash Near Bath
Two men who sparked a deadly crash by racing on the A367 near Bath have been locked up for a combined 16 years. On March 3, 2021, Daniel Leonard, 29, and Mark Howell, 32, raced side-by-side into a sharp bend on Dunkerton Hill. Their reckless stunt ended in tragedy.
Woman Killed in Horror Head-On Collision
Their vehicles collided with a VW Polo driven by 64-year-old Heather Church. She suffered severe head injuries and died instantly at the scene. Leonard and Howell faced Bristol Crown Court and were charged with causing death by dangerous driving on November 24.
Prison Sentences and Bans for Dangerous Drivers
- Leonard, homeless, was sentenced to 15 years: 11 years in prison plus 4 years on licence.
- Howell, from Bath, got 5½ years in prison.
- Leonard will face a 10-year driving ban after release; Howell a 5-year ban.
- Both must pass extended driving tests before getting back on the road.
Speeding and Fleeing the Scene
The court heard Leonard was in an orange Ford ST, Howell in a BMW M5. Both overtook a bus before the crash. A collision expert estimated Leonard was doing 79mph in a 50mph zone. The force of impact ripped the Ford’s engine and gearbox from the car. Howell tried to flee but was caught near Bristol Airport later that night.
Justice for Heather Church
“No sentence can undo this horror scene,” said Judge Patrick during sentencing. Heather’s family called the crash devastating and thanked emergency teams and the public for their support.
Collision investigator Dai Nicholas praised the thorough investigation—covering CCTV, eyewitness reports, and forensic analysis. He slammed the drivers’ recklessness for costing an innocent life and hoped the verdict would offer some relief to Heather’s loved ones.
“We urge all drivers to think twice about the deadly risks of racing on public roads,” Nicholas added. Thanks to all who helped bring the culprits to justice in this tragic case.
