Manslaughter verdict on killing by driver

A 20-year-old has been found guilty of manslaughter for driving his speeding car onto a pavement and killing a father.

Ashley Lunn, of Sandpiper Close, Hednesford, was found not guilty of murdering Christopher Hatfield, 39. He was found him guilty of manslaughter and will be sentenced later. His innocent victim was walking with people, three of whom earlier assaulted Lunn.

After the attack Lunn armed himself with a knife and drove his VW Golf onto the pavement on Market Street, near its junction with Victoria Street, Hednesford.

It hit Mr Hatfield of Rigby Drive, Chadsmoor, and he died of severe head injuries at the scene in October. Lunn failed to stop, sped off and made calls to police trying to cover his actions.

He later changed his story several times when being interviewed, Stafford Crown Court heard.

Chief Inspector Mick Boyle said: "This is a tragic case in which Mr Hatfield just so happened to be in the wrong place at the wrong time. He was an innocent man, simply walking home with a take-away after enjoying a night out.

"By stark contrast, there was nothing innocent about Lunn's actions.

"He drove his car at speed and it mounted the pavement. It is only by chance that more people weren't seriously hurt or killed.

"Mr Hatfield's death was an awful, unnecessary loss. His family and friends continue to have our sympathies. Lunn must now reflect on the pain and grief he has brought about for everyone concerned."

Claire Wetton, senior crown prosecutor for Crown Prosecution Service in Staffordshire said Lunn showed complete disregard for others safety and it was only by chance that there was no further loss of life.

Mr Hatfield's family today said he was "a fantastic and protective brother and a really good uncle".

They added: "Chris was the wrong person, in the wrong place at the wrong time and did nothing at all to deserve his death."