Man killed by driver on way to sell drugs

DRUNK WAS SHOWING OFF AT MORE THAN DOUBLE THE SPEED LIMIT

- CARL JACKSON Court Reporter

A DRUNK driver "showing off in a big boy BMW" while on his way to sell cocaine struck and killed a "kind, beautiful and thoughtful" 71-year-old man.

Makyle Taggart, from Lea Hall Road, Kitts Green, was doing more than double the 30mph speed limit in Audley Road, Stechford when he ploughed into Wynford Griffiths who was crossing the street on Febraury 9.

Mr Wynford, known as 'Willie, suffered catastrophic injuries to his head and died.

But cowardly Taggart fled the scene telling his passengers "it will be alright".

His pal, who was in the car at the time, later told police that Taggart had been 'bladdered' behind the wheel.

He was arrested and answered "no comment" but has now pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving.

The 30-year-old was jailed for 13 years and two months at Birmingham Crown Court yesterday.

He will serve up to two thirds of the term in custody and then face a ten-year driving ban from the point of release.

Judge Paul Farrer KC described the incident as a "truly appalling piece of driving".

He said: "Your behaviour demonstrates an attitude of complete irresponsibility in relation to driving and a significant period of disqualification is necessary to protect the public from you."