Killer driver 'shattered' family's lives
Northumbria PoliceA speeding driver who killed another motorist and left three people with life-changing injuries has been jailed for more than 11 years.
Owen Rutherford's Seat Leon crashed with a Kia Nero on the A68 at Beukley Bank, in Northumberland, in October 2023, having been travelling at more than 85mph (135km/h).
Police said he was driving recklessly, overtaking on a blind summit while under the influence of cocaine.
During a previous hearing at Newcastle Crown Court, the 25-year-old, of Ridsdale, near Hexham, Northumberland, pleaded guilty to death by dangerous driving and three counts of causing serious injury by dangerous.
The Kia driver, a 69-year-old man, died from his injuries in the days following the crash.
His wife, adult daughter and another person in the car were all badly injured and the family's dog was killed.
'Total devastation'
Appearing at the same court on Monday, Rutherford was sentenced to 11 years and four months in prison.
He was also disqualified from driving for 19 years.
Sgt Russell Surrey, of Northumbria Police, said Rutherford had caused "total devastation".
"Rutherford's incredibly dangerous actions saw one man lose his life and his family's lives shattered.
"They now have to live without their much-loved husband, father, uncle and friend.
"As well as the life that was lost, three other people have to live with life-changing injuries as a result of his dangerous decision to get behind the wheel."