Hartlepool minibus driver 'took lives of all passengers in his hands' in fatal crash after taking cocaine

The driver of a minibus which rolled over twice in a fatal crash with a lorry after taking cocaine "took the lives of all passengers in his hands", a police officer has said.
Picture of the crash scene, by Dan HollandPicture of the crash scene, by Dan Holland
Picture of the crash scene, by Dan Holland

The crash happened on the A34 in Hampshire. Three other passengers were injured and the 63-year-old lorry driver was unhurt.Speaking aftter the sentencing hearing, Pc Simon Nelson from the Serious Collision Investigation Unit said: “This case shows the serious and terrible consequences of driving under the influence of drugs.

Craig Hall with step daughter ShannonCraig Hall with step daughter Shannon
Craig Hall with step daughter Shannon
Hide Ad
Hide Ad

"The driver of the minibus, Lee Burdon, had cocaine in his system which would have impaired his driving ability and judgement. “The outcome of his recklessness in making the decision to take those drugs was sadly fatal. Lee Burdon had the lives of all those in the minibus in his hands, not to mention other road users – and he chose to take a massive risk with those lives. Sadly, it has resulted in the most tragic of consequences.”