A lorry driver who killed a 19-year-old girl and seriously injured two others after crashing into their stationary car on the M6 has been found guilty. Daniel Barlow was convicted of causing death by dangerous driving and two counts of causing serious injury by dangerous driving following a three-day trial at Chester Crown Court, which concluded today, Friday August 14.
Crash details
The 30-year-old, of Railway Close, Facit, Whitworth, was bailed to appear for sentencing on Friday September 25. The court heard that on the evening of Friday December 2, 2022, Barlow was driving a white DAF truck northbound on the M6 between junctions 16 and 17 after completing a number of deliveries in the Birmingham area.
At the same time, Chloe Williams, 19, was one of two passengers in a grey Volkswagen Polo being driven by her partner. They were travelling to a concert in Manchester. As they approached junction 17 for Sandbach, the Polo came to a stop in lane one due to heavy traffic.
Failure to react
Barlow was also travelling in lane one, but failed to react to the stationary traffic and smashed into the rear of the Volkswagen. Analysis of the lorry showed Barlow had been travelling at a constant speed of 55mph along the carriageway. Despite having a clear view of the traffic ahead, he did not attempt to stop until between 0.25 and 0.5 seconds before the crash.
The impact caused serious injuries to all three occupants of the Polo, who were taken to hospital. Sadly, despite the efforts of those involved, Chloe later died from her injuries. The two other occupants suffered a number of serious injuries, including broken legs and a fractured skull. Their injuries have had life-changing consequences, with both men suffering memory loss and long-lasting pain.
Family tribute and police response
Following Chloe's death, her family paid tribute to their "beautiful girl". In a statement, they said: "We have lost our beautiful girl in the most tragic way. She was about to start her dream career and has now had all that taken away. We ask as a family to be allowed to grieve in private."
Barlow was arrested following the incident. During police questioning, he was unable to provide an explanation for why he had failed to slow down before the crash.
Following the verdict, Inspector Andrew Dennison of the Cheshire Police Serious Collision Investigation Unit said: "Chloe was a bright young woman who was just about to embark on her dream career with British Airways, but her life was cut short because of the actions of Barlow.
"Our investigation showed that Chloe’s death was entirely preventable, Barlow had ample time to react and slow down. However, he was clearly not concentrating on his driving, and his vehicle became a deadly weapon.
"This case demonstrates the importance of ensuring that all road users pay full attention when driving on our roads, as just one lapse really can mean the difference between life and death.
"My thoughts at this time remain with Chloe’s family and while nothing will ever bring her back, I hope that the guilty verdict will provide them with some closure and allow them to move forward with their lives."
