Middleton Driver Convicted of Manslaughter in Teenager's Death
A driver who was on trial for murder after allegedly deliberately targeting a teenager on an e-bike has been convicted of the lesser charge of manslaughter. Terrence King, aged 59, faced accusations of intentionally steering his vehicle towards 15-year-old Devon Simmons-Caines during an incident last summer, but the jury was directed to return a guilty verdict for manslaughter on Wednesday, January 28.
Jury Unable to Reach Murder Verdict
The trial at Minshull Street Crown Court heard that jurors could not agree on a murder conviction, leading to the alternative charge being pursued. Prosecutors have indicated they may seek a retrial for murder, with a further hearing scheduled for February 10 to determine the next steps. King, from Middleton, has been remanded into custody following the verdict.
During the proceedings, it was revealed that King acted "in temper" when he drove his Vauxhall Insignia onto the pavement on Rowrah Crescent in Langley, Middleton. CCTV footage from neighbouring homes captured the moment of impact, showing the car steering towards Devon without braking, resulting in multiple "unsurvivable" injuries.
Details of the Fatal Incident
The court heard that Devon was riding an expensive e-bike that he and another youth had reportedly stolen earlier that day. King admitted to driving "well in excess" of the 20mph speed limit, estimating his speed at between 30 and 40 mph at the time of the collision on July 22 last year. When questioned by his barrister, Mukul Chawla KC, King stated he was "just looking for the bike" and made a "deliberate decision" to block it, but could not explain why he failed to apply the brakes.
Under cross-examination by prosecutor Michael Hayton KC, King accepted full responsibility for Devon's death, expressing feelings of shame and guilt. However, he denied any intent to kill or seriously injure the teenager, claiming the manoeuvre was a reaction upon seeing the bike. The emotional impact of the case was evident, with people in the public gallery weeping as the CCTV footage was played in court.
Legal Proceedings and Aftermath
The jury's inability to reach a unanimous decision on the murder charge highlights the complexities of proving intent in such cases. King pleaded guilty to manslaughter when rearraigned, and the court has now moved forward with this conviction. The case underscores ongoing concerns about road safety and violent incidents involving young people in urban areas like Middleton.
As the community mourns the loss of Devon Simmons-Caines, tributes have been left at the scene, reflecting the profound grief felt by family and friends. The legal outcome leaves open the possibility of further action, with prosecutors considering whether to pursue a retrial for murder in the coming weeks.
