A Chingford couple’s holiday in Spain turned tragic when a speeding drunk driver struck them at a pedestrian crossing in Los Alcázares, Murcia. Steven Campbell, 51, died instantly, while his wife Emma was seriously injured in the crash.
Steven and Emma Campbell arrived in Murcia on July 6, 2024, looking forward to a relaxing summer break. Married since 1997, they spent their days enjoying the Spanish sunshine and watched the Euro 2024 semi-final between Spain and France on their final evening. After the match, they took a quiet walk along the seafront, a decision that would have devastating consequences.
At approximately 11pm outside the Costa Narejos Hotel, a Peugeot 406 driven by a man named Mr. Abdelali sped through a pedestrian crossing and hit both Steven and Emma. Spanish police arrived promptly at 11:05pm; the vehicle’s engine was still running and the driver smelled strongly of alcohol.
The inquest held at East London Coroner’s Court on February 21 revealed that Steven suffered catastrophic head trauma resulting in brain death. Emma survived but sustained serious injuries. Police found the driver was over three times the legal drink-drive limit. Although the driver claimed a parked car obstructed his view, investigators concluded he was driving recklessly and at excessive speed. The force of the impact threw the couple several metres from the crossing, confirming the severity of the collision.
Steven died the following day in hospital. Emma spent two weeks in a Spanish hospital before being transferred to the Royal London Hospital in Whitechapel for further treatment.
Steven, who worked as an investments specialist at Wells Fargo, had planned to retire in three years to spend more time with Emma and their children. Coroner Dr Shirley Radcliffe described him as “an honest, caring, and funny family man” dedicated to building a comfortable future for his family. She ruled the cause of death as a road traffic collision but noted that the UK court cannot determine civil liability for incidents abroad. Dr Radcliffe extended her “deepest sympathies” to the family, calling the death “a tragedy.”
The driver faces charges of drink-driving and causing death by dangerous driving in Spain but has yet to stand trial. The family remains frustrated but focused on remembering Steven’s life. They said, “On July 9, 2024, our lives changed forever. While nothing can bring Steve back, we want to remember him as a brilliant husband, supportive father, and great friend. We ask for privacy as we grieve.”
This tragic incident highlights the deadly consequences of drink-driving. The pain of loss transcends borders, and the family continues to await justice as Emma recovers. Support is available for those affected by similar tragedies through charities such as Brake and Samaritans.
Our thoughts are with the Campbell family during this unimaginably difficult time.
Originally published by UKNIP.
