Fiancé Murdered in Chilling Car Attack: Alice Wood Found Guilty
In a shocking verdict at Chester Crown Court, 23-year-old Alice Wood was convicted of murdering her 24-year-old fiancé, Ryan Watson, after deliberately running him down in a chilling car rampage in Rode Heath.
‘Game of Chicken’ Turns Deadly After Night Out
The horrific attack happened on May 6, 2022. The couple had been drinking at a party in Hanley before heading home. Intoxicated and behind the wheel of Ryan’s Fiat Punto, Wood’s actions quickly escalated into tragedy.
Witnesses described a dangerous game of ‘chicken’ as the pair argued outside their home. CCTV captured Wood jump into her own Ford Fiesta, revving the engine and reversing near Watson. Neighbours heard shouting and slamming doors just before the fatal incident.
Repeated Car Strikes Leave Victim Trapped Under Vehicle
Shockingly, Wood reversed at Ryan once, narrowly missing him. She then sped forward, crashing him onto the bonnet. Despite Ryan initially walking away, Wood hit him a third time — pinning him under her car.
She drove nearly 160 metres with Ryan trapped beneath before stopping and seeking help. Emergency crews rushed to the scene, but Ryan was declared dead at the scene.
Cold Silence in Court as Justice Is Served
Wood stayed silent during her three-week trial, giving “no comment” answers, but the evidence was overwhelming. She now faces sentencing on January 29 after being found guilty of murder.
“Wood used her vehicle as a deadly weapon while drunk, deliberately striking Ryan and driving on with him pinned under the car,” said Detective Inspector Nigel Parr. “We hope this verdict brings some closure to Ryan’s family.”
Ryan’s family paid tribute in a heartfelt statement, mourning the loss of a “compassionate and fun-loving” man devoted to others. They expressed gratitude to police, emergency workers, and the court for pursuing justice for their beloved son and fiancé.
This brutal case shines a harsh light on the tragic consequences of violence fueled by alcohol and rage.
