A MAN who killed his friend in a head-on-collision has been jailed.
Ryan Lee was killed on June 17, 2023 as a result of his friend John Smith’s reckless driving.
The pair had been out at a pub in Eggborough, North Yorkshire before the incident occurred.
John Smith, 24 was driving Mr Lee’s van – despite having no licence or insurance.
He then ran a red light before speeding around a sharp bend.
After misjudging an overtake on the A645 Weeland Road, the van collided head-on with an oncoming vehicle at around 6.30pm.
Mr Lee was killed and the driver of the oncoming vehicle was seriously injured.
Ryan was in the passenger seat of the van and was pronounced dead at the scene.
His family described him as having a “heart of gold”, as his death has left “a huge hole in [their] lives”.
The oncoming driver was returning home from work to have dinner with his family.
He was left with critical injuries that have required numerous operations to treat.
This will have a lifelong impact on him and his family.
Witnesses described John’s driving as “appalling”.
John Smith was convicted today of causing death and serious injury by dangerous driving, causing death while driving uninsured and without a licence.
Mr Smith pleaded guilty at York Crown Court before the case went to trial in May 2025.
He was given an 11 year sentence today.
Mr Smith was also taken to hospital following the incident.
After the sentencing, Detective Constable Richard Grey of North Yorkshire Police’s Major Collision Investigation Team said: “This collision has left the Lee family devastated with the loss of Ryan. They’ve told us it’s left them absolutely broken.
“The family of the injured driver have also had their life turned upside down, as he endured multiple operations.
“He now has to live with the fact that his injuries will leave a lasting legacy of reduced mobility and the inability live his life as intended.
“The affected families have at least been saved from the ordeal of a trial, as Smith has admitted his guilt and not sullied Ryan’s name in this senseless and horrific incident.
“All this has happened because Smith showed no regard for the safety of others and an attempt to save a few seconds off a journey with an overtake.”
