Drunk Driver Gets 12 Years for Killing Student

Liam Bowes, 37, received a 12-year prison sentence for causing the death of university student Abigail Eggleston. Bowes drove through a red light at 56mph in a 40mph zone while heavily intoxicated, fatally striking the 22-year-old as she used a pedestrian crossing. He then fled the scene and set the vehicle on fire to destroy evidence.

During the sentencing at Teesside Crown Court, Judge Francis Laird, KC, characterized Bowes's actions as prolonged, persistent, and deliberate, noting Abigail 'did not stand a chance.' Abigail's family expressed deep grief and anger, calling Bowes a 'selfish coward' for his failure to stop and his subsequent attempts to evade justice. The court heard Bowes had consumed up to ten pints of lager and shots before driving.

Bowes admitted causing death by dangerous driving and perverting the course of justice. He was also disqualified from driving for 18 years. The judge emphasized the devastating and lifelong impact of Abigail's loss on her family. Abigail, a second-year law student at Durham University, was described as an intelligent, hard-working, and sensitive young woman with a promising future.