A visually impaired driver who ignored the law and ended a man’s life has been locked up for nearly six years. Mark Caprile caused the death of 75-year-old Nigel Knight in Tunbridge Wells, after failing a key eyesight test.
Fatal Crash Outside Football Club
The tragic smash happened at around 5pm on Saturday, 7 January 2023. Caprile’s white Volkswagen Transporter hit Nigel Knight as he crossed Culverdon Down near Tunbridge Wells Football Club.
Emergency teams found Nigel unconscious with serious head injuries. Despite rushed hospital treatment, he later died. Caprile was arrested on the spot, suspected of causing serious injury by dangerous driving.
Failed Eyesight Test and Court Sentence
While in custody, Caprile was asked to read number plates from 20 metres away. He failed miserably, proving his vision was below driving standards. Medical experts confirmed he knew about his severe impairment but chose to drive anyway.
Caprile, 58, from Holden Park Road, was convicted at Maidstone Crown Court. He was handed a hefty five years and eight months behind bars on 12 March 2026. On top of that, he faces a driving ban lasting seven years and ten months and must pass an extended driving retest before getting his licence back.
Police Condemn Dangerous Decision
Detective Sergeant Faye Murphy said: “Caprile got behind the wheel knowing his vision fell below the legal standard for driving and chose to put pedestrians and road users at risk.”
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“His selfish choices cost an innocent man his life. This sentence can’t undo that, but we hope it brings some comfort and closure to Mr Knight’s family.”
