A reckless driver crashed his car into the home of an elderly couple, causing £20,000 in damage before fleeing the scene. The victims, both in their 70s, were left shaken and homeless for months.
Nightmare Smash in Middle Rasen
Just after midnight on Saturday, 13 July 2024, Kevin Martin, 47, from Balderton, Nottinghamshire, lost control at a T-junction on Gainsborough Road near Gallamore Lane, Middle Rasen. His black Chrysler ploughed straight through the couple’s garden fence and smashed into the side of their house.
The brutal impact left brickwork smashed, exposed live electrical wires, and the property unsafe to live in. The shocked couple had to move into emergency accommodation while repairs dragged on for over five months.
Driver Flees, Caught by Police Drone
Martin didn’t stop to help. Instead, he casually grabbed a bottle of wine from his wrecked car and fled the scene without offering any assistance or details. Police launched a tough search, deploying a drone that spotted him hiding curled up in a hedge nearby. He was quickly arrested.
Suspended Jail Sentence and Harsh Driving Ban
At Lincoln Crown Court on 30 January 2026, Martin pleaded guilty to dangerous driving and failing to provide a breath test. He was handed a 20-month suspended prison sentence and slapped with an interim driving ban of at least a year until he passes a retest. He also faces six months of electronic monitoring.
On top of that, Martin must undergo a Mental Health Treatment Order, complete 25 days of Rehabilitation Action, and pay £787 in court costs.
“Martin’s dangerous actions put lives at risk and caused severe damage,” police said. “His sentencing reflects the serious consequences of such reckless driving.”
