Grandfather Killed in Horrific Drink-Driving Incident
A 29-year-old man has been remanded in custody after admitting to causing the death of a grandfather in a horrific drink-driving collision. Callum Fox, described as 'really drunk', was driving at speeds of up to 91mph on a 30mph road when he struck 63-year-old Jim Paterson in Paisley in the early hours of November 27, 2022.
Night of Tragedy Unfolds
Fox had been drinking at a cocktail bar in Paisley, ignoring pleas from friends not to drive. Despite being two-and-a-half times over the legal alcohol limit, he got behind the wheel of his powerful Mercedes AMG A45 to travel to a house party. Witnesses reported seeing the vehicle 'overtaking at speed' and 'swerving all over the road' moments before the fatal impact.
Mr Paterson, who had been enjoying a 'curry night' with friends, was crossing the road at approximately 12:26am when Fox's car struck him. The High Court in Glasgow heard that the victim suffered catastrophic injuries, including fractures to his skull, spine and sternum, with his left arm and legs being severed. He was pronounced dead at the scene at 12:33am.
Devastating Impact on Family
The court learned that Jim Paterson was a father of three and a grandfather who had worked as a plater and shipyard worker. He had been married for 46 years at the time of his tragic death. Prosecutor Alex Prentice, KC, outlined the details of the case to the court.
Fox remained at the scene and confessed to police officers, stating: 'It was me, I was driving when I hit the guy.' Analysis of his vehicle confirmed he had reached 91mph on the 30mph road just before the collision.
Judge Lord Cubie told Fox during the hearing: 'You caused the tragic death of Mr Paterson. There is nothing the court can do to properly reflect the loss and devastation which is still evident today.' He emphasised that the 'grossly excessive' speed gave Mr Paterson no chance of survival.
The judge described the standard of driving as being at the highest level of appalling behaviour and confirmed that a substantial prison sentence would follow. Fox, a self-employed salesman from Paisley, has been remanded in custody while sentencing was deferred until January.
