TikTok Stunt Turns Tragic: Man Suffers Life-Altering Brain Injury
A reckless TikTok challenge has left one man fighting for his life and put Connor Pace, 23, behind the wheel of legal trouble.
Bonnet Ride Disaster at Bexhill Retail Park
On 17 January, Pace met with fellow car fans at Ravenside Retail Park, Bexhill. Inspired by a viral TikTok stunt, they dared to ride on the bonnet of a moving car.
Pace, a bus driver from St Helens Park Road, hastings/" title="Hastings" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Hastings, let a friend climb onto the bonnet of his stationary Seat Leon. He then drove around the car park for just 17 seconds. The friend fell off, smashing his head hard on the ground.
Victim Left with Severe Brain Injury
The man from St Leonards was rushed to hospital and stayed unconscious for nearly a month. Doctors confirmed he suffered a traumatic brain injury, requiring multiple surgeries and ongoing care.
“The incident has left me severely impacted both physically and mentally,” said the victim.
His mother, who returned from Cornwall to care for him full-time, added: “This has changed my life forever.”
Connor Pace Pleads Guilty, Sentenced to Suspended Jail
Initially denying the charges, Pace was later charged with causing serious injury by dangerous driving. Police relied on witness accounts and CCTV footage to build their case.
On 26 November, Lewes Crown Court handed Pace a 16-month suspended sentence for two years. His driving licence was revoked for two years. He must also complete 300 hours of unpaid work and wear an electronic tag from 8pm to 8am for eight weeks. Before driving again, Pace faces an extended driving test.
Detective Constable David Symonds blasted the stunt: “The defendant’s actions were mindless and irresponsible. Cars are powerful machines capable of causing serious injury. This incident has irreparably changed both lives.”
