Drunk and reckless driver jailed after ploughing into brick wall killing ‘gentle giant’ passenger

A drunk and reckless driver who killed his “gentle giant” passenger after ploughing through a brick wall has been jailed.

Christopher Brown, 29, lost control of his blue Subaru Impreza before colliding with a brick wall on Woodside Lane in Ryton on August 7 2020.

Brown was driving under the influence of alcohol and lost control of his vehicle, which led to the tragic death of 28-year-old Callum Gray, who was riding in the passenger seat.

An investigation was quickly launched and resulted in the arrest and subsequent charge of Brown.

Brown, who appeared at Newcastle Crown Court, pleaded guilty to causing death by careless driving whilst over the prescribed limit for alcohol.

He was sentenced to three years and four months behind bars.

Sergeant John Sanderson of Northumbria Police’s Motor Patrols department hopes the incident sends a strong message to motorists.

He said: “Our thoughts remain with Callum’s family as they continue to grieve their heart-breaking loss.

“This is yet another painful example of how drinking and driving can have devastating consequences for all involved.

“Motorists need to understand the dangers and risks getting behind the wheel poses and the importance of staying focused, sober and within the speed limit.

“Our roads have laws to protect road users and the public and Brown will now have to live with the consequences of breaking those laws.”

In a tribute by his family, Callum was described as a “gentle giant” who was loved by everyone he knew.

They said: “Callum was a really popular lad who everyone knew and loved.

“He was a gentle giant and a really great friend to everyone, and we are absolutely devastated by his loss.”

Brown, from Prudhoe, has also been banned from driving for four years and eight months.