A motorist from Weavering blasted down an icy country lane at a terrifying 87mph just moments before smashing into a couple and their dog – killing all three instantly, a court has heard.
Deadly Crash on Thurnham Lane
Scott Gunn, 38, was behind the wheel of his BMW X5 – bought only a week earlier – when he hit Thomas and Susan Corkery along with their dog Gracie. The incident happened in January 2024 on Thurnham Lane, Bearsted, which carries a 60mph limit. Yet data revealed Gunn was speeding at 87mph just before the fatal collision.
The Corkerys, aged 61 and 68, plus their dog, were hurled into a hedge by the out-of-control vehicle and died instantly. The car bounced off the hedge, rolled briefly, then screeched to a stop.
Prosecutor Slams ‘Obviously Dangerous’ Driving
Gunn is on trial at Maidstone Crown Court, charged with two counts of causing death by dangerous driving. He admits to careless driving but denies dangerous driving.
“His driving fell far below the standard expected of a competent and careful driver. It was not just careless, it was obviously dangerous,” prosecutor Richard Hillman told the courtroom.
Hillman revealed a warning sign about icy roads stood less than a mile from the crash site. CCTV footage showed other drivers crawling at 20-22mph, but witnesses say Gunn’s BMW thundered past at breakneck speed before skidding out of control as he braked.
Witnesses Recall Harrowing Crash
- Nearby dog walker David Scott frantically waved to warn Gunn of the ice – but Gunn accelerated instead and lost control shortly after.
- A local described the BMW as the fastest car they’d ever seen on the narrow lane regularly used by walkers and horse riders.
- At the scene, Gunn reportedly admitted: “I was going too fast. I didn’t see the ice until the last second.”
Local Knowledge Makes Speeding More Reckless
The prosecutor pointed out Gunn lived just eight minutes away and knew the local roads well, making his excessive speed all the more reckless.
Hillman added: “The speed limit is 60mph, but that’s a limit, not a target. Driving at 87mph on a narrow, icy country lane well-known for walkers and horse riders is beyond dangerous.”
The Corkerys had been enjoying tea at the Black Horse Inn before their fatal walk, warning family about the icy conditions.
Trial Continues
Gunn claims he didn’t spot ice patches in time and was stunned by the crash in a police interview. The trial is ongoing as the court examines further evidence.
