Drink and Drug-Fueled Driver Causes 'War Zone' in Milnathort
A driver under the influence of alcohol and drugs caused significant damage and injuries in Milnathort, Kinross-shire, after crashing into multiple vehicles and injuring several people. John Boyle, 33, admitted to causing serious injury by dangerous driving and has been remanded in custody.
The Wreckage and Injuries
John Boyle, driving at an estimated 80 mph in a 20 mph zone, caused a scene that a sheriff described as resembling "a war zone." The incident, which occurred on November 2, 2022, resulted in injuries to four adults and a nine-year-old child. Seven vehicles were damaged, with most being written off.
- Jonathan Gardner sustained whiplash and bruising after attempting to avoid Boyle's vehicle.
- Patrick Byrne's Mitsubishi ASX rolled over after being struck from behind.
- David Mackenzie-Mills suffered a fractured sternum after Boyle crashed head-on into his Honda Jazz.
- Ann Gardner sustained a bloody nose, soft tissue injuries, and shock.
- A nine-year-old girl was hospitalized with a fractured clavicle.
The Driver's Condition and Aftermath
Following the crashes, John Boyle and his cousin were found unconscious at the scene. Boyle's roadside breath test revealed he was three times over the legal alcohol limit. He also admitted to having taken cocaine prior to the incident. He himself sustained a broken ankle and two fractured vertebrae. Laurelle Johnstone, the fiscal depute, noted Boyle's prior driving convictions, including a 12-month ban in 2010.
Legal Proceedings and Sentencing
Sheriff Simon Collins expressed astonishment that no one was killed in the incident, describing it as "a miracle." Boyle has been remanded in custody pending reports and will be disqualified from driving on an interim basis. His solicitor, David Holmes, acknowledged the severity of his client's actions and stated that Boyle "finds it difficult to look back at November 2022." He accepts that his driving was dangerous and warrants punishment.
