A drink driver who downed eight to ten pints before mowing down a Durham University student has been jailed for 12 years.
Heartbroken Mum Speaks Out
“Losing her has left my world completely crushed and destroyed,” said the grieving mother of Abigail Eggleston. “Life can never be the same for me again without her.”
Fatal Hit-and-Run on A167
Abi, 22, was crossing a pedestrian crossing at Neville’s Cross in the early hours of Sunday, October 26, when Liam Bowes smashed into her with his Volkswagen Golf. Bowes, 37, was speeding, had run a red light, and was heavily intoxicated.
After the crash, Bowes fled the scene, leaving Abi fatally injured in the road. He raced home to Kelloe and spent hours trying to cover his tracks.
Lie, Arson, and Arrest
- Bowes abandoned the Golf, which was later found burnt out and smoke-damaged in a layby near Town Kelloe.
- He tried to dodge blame, claiming the car was stolen while he was at a party.
- But CCTV shattered his story, forcing him to admit driving the car.
He pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving, perverting the course of justice, driving without insurance, and failing to stop. Bowes was also banned from driving for 18 years and must pass an extended test before getting his licence back.
