Teen escapes death after horror smash

May 14 2009 By Adam Courtney

The crash scene in Upper Halliford

A SUSPECTED drink-driver escaped death after losing control of his car and smashing it into a lamppost in Upper Halliford.

The teenager, an 18-year-old from East Molesey, walked free from injury after his red Honda Civic careered onto its roof, mangling its front end.

But he was taken away by officers and arrested on suspicion of drink driving and suspicion of possessing class B drugs and bailed until June 19, pending further enquiries. Officers seized the suspected drugs, and have sent them for analysis.

The road was closed for almost two hours following the smash, which happened just before midnight on Tuesday (May 12), as emergency workers cleared the wreckage.
Shocked residents who live nearby were woken from their beds by the sound of shattering glass.

A pensioner who lives nearby, who didn't want to be named, said: "I was sleeping when I heard an almighty crash and the sound of smashing glass. I thought there were burglars at first so I had a look and saw the car.

"I felt there must have been a fatality because the car was in a terrible state, totally mangled at the front, but then I saw the driver get out and before long the fire and police had arrived. It was extremely worrying and I'm just pleased the lad is alright because he seemed to be very young – there could have been a tragedy and there have been a fair few incidents on this road in the past."

Police confirmed an 18-year-old from East Molesey was arrested on suspicion of driving while over the legal alcohol limit and possession of class B drugs.

Anyone who witnessed the incident or with any information should call Surrey Police on 0845 125 2222, quoting reference SL/09/3819, or call Crimestoppers in confidence on 0800 555 111.'