Drugged Driver Jailed for Fatal Crash in Warmingham
Martin Cunliffe has been sentenced to five years behind bars after a deadly collision on School Lane, Warmingham.
High-Speed Crash Kills Local Man
The 37-year-old from Barnton was found guilty at Chester Crown Court of causing death by driving without due care and attention while over the drug limit.
The tragic crash happened just after 11am on Wednesday 12 August 2020, when Cunliffe’s red Fiat 500 smashed into a white Ford Connect van driven by 50-year-old Gerry Smith from Middlewich.
Mr Smith suffered fatal injuries at the scene, while Cunliffe was taken to hospital with injuries.
Speeding and Drugs: The Deadly Combo
- Witnesses told officers Cunliffe was driving well above the 30mph limit, with one recalling him overtaking at speed.
- CCTV and car data revealed speeds hitting 54mph along School Lane and 39mph at the point of impact.
- Blood tests showed Cunliffe had 392 micrograms of MDMA per litre of blood – 39 times over the illegal drug-driving limit.
Justice Served and Family Speaks Out
At sentencing on 14 July, Cunliffe was handed a seven-year driving ban alongside his five-year prison term.
PC Liz Thompson, of Cheshire Constabulary’s Serious and Complex Collision Investigation Unit, said:
“This case shows the deadly dangers of driving high on illegal drugs and speeding. Cunliffe’s selfish decision cost a man his life. Our thoughts remain with Mr Smith’s family. We hope today’s verdict brings them some closure.”
Heartbroken family of Mr Smith added:
“We are absolutely devastated by the sudden, avoidable loss of our beloved Gerry. He was the life and soul of the party, a devoted husband, father of seven children and grandfather to 24 grandchildren. Four of them will never meet their loving grandad. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.”
