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Drink-Driver Crashes Into Pub After 70mph Chase
22 Sep
Summary
- Man died after drink-driving at over 70mph into a pub.
- Police pursuit ended moments before the fatal collision.
- Inquest jury found alcohol contributed to the decision-making.
A 23-year-old man, Will Place, tragically died after driving his car at over 70mph into the White Lion pub in Heywood, Greater Manchester. The incident occurred in the early hours of Monday, July 1, 2024, following a night of drinking in Rochdale. Police observed Mr Place running a red light and began a pursuit, but officers discontinued it shortly before the fatal crash.
The inquest jury at Rochdale Coroner's Court delivered a narrative verdict, concluding that alcohol was a contributing factor to Mr Place's decision-making. They also found that his excessive speed during the pursuit and a bend in the road led to the vehicle's instability. A post-mortem revealed Mr Place suffered catastrophic injuries and was twice the legal drink-driving limit.
His mother described him as a thoughtful, kind young man with much to live for, while his aunt noted his dependability and the terrible decision that cost him his life. The jury's verdict made no mention of the police officers' conduct.
