Family of Scots grandad killed after driver’s ‘cat and mouse’ race reveal ‘immeasurable loss’

The family of a Scottish grandfather who tragically lost his life in a car race on a rural road in Ayrshire have expressed their profound grief at the “immeasurable loss” they have suffered. The fatal crash occurred in July 2021 when Daniel Kelly, 43, engaged in a “cat and mouse” race with another driver, Adam Smith, 35. Following this competitive driving, a head-on collision took place with a third vehicle, resulting in the deaths of Adam Smith and Gary Patterson, a 65-year-old passenger in the third car.

After a trial at the High Court in Kilmarnock earlier this year, Kelly was cleared of causing the deaths of Smith and Patterson. However, the jury found him guilty of driving dangerously leading up to the fatal collision. In a statement released via law firm Digby Brown, the family of Gary Patterson described him as a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. They asked for privacy as they navigate through this difficult time.

At the sentencing at the High Court in Edinburgh, Kelly received a community payback order as an alternative to a custodial sentence. He was sentenced to 250 hours of unpaid work, placed on a tag for nine months, and banned from driving for four years. Despite being acquitted of causing the deaths, the court found Kelly guilty of dangerous driving for his actions preceding the tragic crash.

Witnesses testified to the dangerous driving behaviour, indicating overtaking on blind bends and speeding. The court heard how Kelly engaged in a race with Smith’s car at excessive speeds for the conditions, ultimately leading to the fatal collision. Kelly’s defence solicitor advocate described his client’s actions as selfish and stupid but highlighted Kelly’s cooperation at the scene and the lasting impact on his mental well-being.

Judge Welsh imposed restrictions on Kelly, requiring him to remain at home during specified hours for nine months. The court proceedings shed light on the devastating consequences of reckless driving and the importance of upholding road safety regulations to prevent such heart-wrenching tragedies.

In conclusion, the family’s heartfelt tribute to their late grandfather underscores the profound impact of road accidents on loved ones left behind. The court’s decision to hold the driver accountable for dangerous driving serves as a poignant reminder of the need for responsible behaviour on the roads to prevent further loss of life. Road safety measures and awareness are crucial in ensuring tragedies like this are avoided in the future.