Motorcyclist who struck child and fled scene is jailed

A man has been jailed following a serious collision involving a motorcycle and a child.

The court heard how 18-year-old Kaylem Longhurst, was riding the motorcycle when he struck the child, causing serious injuries, before fleeing the scene.

Following a thorough investigation, Longhurst, of Morgan Walk, Nantwich, was identified and admitted dangerous driving.

He was also convicted by a jury at Mold Crown Court in February of conspiring to pervert the course of justice.

Members of Longhurst’s family were also found guilty, including his mother, Terry Follows, 43, of Clwyd Street, Shotton, who was convicted of perverting the course of justice, and 39-year-old Shane Hunt, of Clwyd Street, Shotton, who was also found guilty of the same offence.

At Mold Crown Court today, 14 April, Longhurst was jailed for 14 months.

Fellows was sentenced to 26 months in custody and Hunt was jailed for 21 months.

Cara Haran, 25, of Lucas Avenue, York, and who is Longhurst’s older sister, had already pleaded guilty for her part in the conspiracy. She was sentenced to nine months in prison.

Five-year-old Arlo Buckley was left critically injured after he was hit and dragged along the road by a motorbike being ridden by Kaylem Longhurst.

The collision happened on Central Drive in Shotton at around 5:30pm on Wednesday, 11^th September 2024. Arlo was airlifted to Alder Hey Children’s Hospital in Liverpool.

Temporary Detective Inspector Katie Davies of the North Wales Police Serious Collision Investigation Unit said: “This was a shocking and deeply distressing incident in which a five-year-old child was left with serious injuries, while the person responsible chose to flee the scene rather than stop and help.

“What is particularly concerning is that members of Longhurst’s own family then assisted him in attempting to evade justice, including helping him leave the area and destroy evidence.

“I would like to commend the bravery of Arlo and his family, and also thank members of the public who came forward with information.

“Today’s sentence reflects the diligent work of our officers, in particular Detective Constable Donna Vernon, and sends a clear message that we will relentlessly pursue not only offenders, but anyone who seeks to help them avoid accountability.”