A 51-year-old man has been locked up for five years and four months after a deadly drink-drive crash in Weedon. On June 8, 2023, elderly local Keith Turnidge, 76, was sitting peacefully on a bench in Bridge Street when he was struck by a car. Mr Turnidge tragically died in hospital two months later.
Perpetrator Caught Over Legal Limit
Derren Goddard, from Harmans Way, Weedon, was found to be over the legal alcohol limit after crashing into Mr Turnidge. Initially denying the charge, Goddard eventually admitted guilt at Northampton Crown Court on July 21. Today, October 10, he was sentenced and banned from driving for 92 months.
Police Speak Out on “Avoidable” Death
“Keith was a popular, well-liked character in Weedon,” said Detective Constable El Hudson of the Serious Collision Investigation Unit. “He was just sitting peacefully when Goddard, who’d been drinking in the local pub barely 400 metres away, chose to drive home. That decision cost Keith his life.”
“Our investigation proved Goddard’s guilt despite his claims of a medical blackout. While no sentence can undo the harm, we hope the family and community find some comfort that justice has been served.”
Community Support and Further Help
Detective Hudson also praised the forensic teams and local residents who helped after the crash. Anyone affected by serious or fatal road collisions can seek help from Voice Road Harm: www.voicenorthants.org/roadharm.
