Huyton drunk driver killed man and then went to buy more alcohol

A tragic incident unfolded on Tarbock Road in Huyton on 5 March 2025, when James O’Donnell, driving a black Volkswagen ID5, collided with 63-year-old cyclist Keith Hornby. O’Donnell was reportedly traveling at 63mph in a 30mph zone at the time of the crash. After the collision, he abandoned his vehicle in a nearby residential area and was later found staggering in the street, subsequently being arrested by police.

During his arrest, footage released by Merseyside Police showed O’Donnell displaying intoxication, slurring his speech and asking officers for a cigarette. When refused, he responded, “Well I’m gonna kick off then, aren’t I?”. Police investigations revealed that O’Donnell’s breath alcohol level was nearly three times the legal limit. Initially, he denied the allegations but changed his plea to guilty before the trial commenced.

O’Donnell, aged 35, admitted to causing death by dangerous driving, drink-driving, and failing to stop after the collision. Liverpool Crown Court sentenced him to 11 years and eight months in prison. Merseyside Police described how, after striking Keith Hornby, O’Donnell looked back at the injured cyclist before speeding off. At the time of arrest, he was attempting to walk home in Cypress Avenue, Huyton.

Detective Sergeant Andy Roper from the Serious Collision Investigation Unit spoke about the victim, describing Keith Hornby as someone who was simply enjoying a familiar bike route on a spring day when the incident occurred. He also criticized O’Donnell for showing “absolutely no remorse or concern for what he had done”. Hornby was known to be the primary carer for his elderly mother and had taken a short break from his demanding schedule for some fresh air and exercise. His family expressed their gratitude to those who helped following the crash and said they could now begin to move on, holding on to the cherished memories Keith provided throughout his life

Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More