Elderly Couple's Home of Four Decades Destroyed in Police Pursuit Crash
An elderly couple have been left heartbroken and their lives upended after a van, which was being pursued by police at speed, careered off the road and smashed through the front of their bungalow, causing catastrophic damage to their home of nearly four decades.
Devastating Impact on South Reston Property
The incident occurred in South Reston, Lincolnshire, on Monday, February 16, at approximately 11.45am. The force of the collision created a gaping hole in the front exterior wall of the property and completely demolished the kitchen, reducing it to rubble. Bricks from the facade were hurled through the hallway, shattering a display cabinet into pieces and leaving debris scattered throughout the home.
The violent impact was so severe that it pushed their washing machine across the house and dismantled a table and chairs. Fortunately, Frank Prescott, 96, and his wife June, 89, were not present at the time of the crash. June had moved into a care home last year following a stroke, and Frank was out visiting her, a circumstance that likely saved their lives.
Family and Community Rally to Support Uninsured Couple
Unfortunately, the couple had not insured their home of 39 years, compounding the tragedy. Their family has since established a fundraiser to help cover costs, with the local community showing an outpouring of support. They are also hoping to recover expenses from the van driver's insurance.
Brian Prescott, 57, the couple's son, expressed his shock and devastation. 'It's so shocking to look at, I feel devastated for mum and dad,' he said. 'They're both old school though, and they've just said we'll just have to deal with it and see what we can do. I couldn't believe how far the van had gone inside the bungalow. The whole kitchen was destroyed, the washing machine flew across the room and smashed up the table and chairs.'
He added, 'I'm blown away by the amount people have donated so far, to help mum and dad out. The community spirit is amazing.'
Couple Express Shock and Disbelief
Frank Prescott described the scene as unbelievable, stating, 'It's unbelievable, I'm so shocked by how far the van has travelled.' June echoed his sentiments, noting, 'We've lived here for 39 years with no problems, and then this happens.'
The driver of the van sustained serious injuries in the crash and was transported to hospital for treatment, according to police reports.
Recovery Efforts and Police Investigation Underway
A recovery truck has since removed the van from the property, and building inspectors have installed acrow props to support the structurally compromised building. Frank has temporarily moved into the care home while his family arranges alternative accommodation until it is safe for him to return.
Lincolnshire Police are investigating the incident and have appealed to the public for assistance. They are urging anyone with video footage of the van between 11.15am and 11.45am on the day of the crash to contact them via 101. The Daily Mail has reached out to Lincolnshire Police for further comment on the pursuit and crash.
