A dangerous driving incident tied to an illegal car meet has resulted in a prison sentence after leaving one man with catastrophic, life-changing injuries and another seriously hurt. Keira Ridler, 26, of Hampson Avenue in Wrexham, was sentenced at Mold Crown Court after admitting two counts of causing serious injury by dangerous driving.
The court heard that the incident took place on 19 September 2021 during a large car gathering at Cheshire Oaks, which reportedly involved up to 200 vehicles. Later that evening, a second meet was organized at Manor Industrial Estate in Flint, where more than 100 pedestrians were also present. Witnesses described vehicles being driven at high speeds along a 30mph road, creating a hazardous environment for those attending.
CCTV footage presented in court showed Ridler driving her Nissan Juke at speed before colliding with a Volkswagen Golf exiting a junction. Analysis indicated that her speed at the point of impact was significantly above the legal limit. The collision had devastating consequences for multiple individuals involved.
Pedestrian Christopher Rakeshaw was struck during the incident and suffered severe injuries that left him in a coma. He was later diagnosed with tetraplegia and now requires full-time care in adapted accommodation. The driver of the Volkswagen Golf, Ellie Blower, also sustained multiple injuries, including fractures and long-term complications that have required ongoing medical treatment.
