Man jailed for drink-drive crash which killed friend

A man was one-and-a-half times over the drink-drive limit when he crashed his BMW killing his 19-year-old passenger.

Oliver Barber, 20, of Juniper Way, Shifnal, hit a fence on the A464 after reaching speeds of more than 60mph in a 30mph hour zone in May 2023. He had spent the evening drinking with friends before offering to give them a lift home.

William Hubbard, a back seat passenger, was pronounced dead at the scene.

Barber admitted causing death by dangerous driving and was jailed for eight years. He was also disqualified from driving for 11 years.

"The collision that night has not only had a devastating impact on the family and friends of William, but also Barber's who will now spend eight years in custody," said PC Helen O'Connor from West Mercia Police.

"We welcome the sentence that has been handed to Barber...and I hope it sends a clear message that driving under the influence can have catastrophic consequences, and it will not be tolerated and offenders will be brought to justice."

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