Drunk driver jailed after camera caught him stumbling to car before crash killed student

A drunk driver filmed stumbling to his car before causing a crash which killed a “selfless and kind-hearted” Master’s student has been jailed for 17 years.

CCTV shows how Ryan McElroy, 35, was so “intoxicated” that he could barely walk to his parked silver Vauxhall Crossland.

The vehicle was later seen being driven at speeds of up to 60mph in a 30mph limit in Gorton, Manchester, where it crashed into the side of a black Vauxhall Insignia.

Louis Dube, a passenger in the Insignia, suffered serious injuries in the crash on 5 December last year. He died in hospital three days later.

The 25-year-old, described by his family as a “joy to be around”, was studying for his Master’s degree at the time and was also a church volunteer.

A 30-year-old woman, a friend of Mr Dube, also suffered serious injuries in the crash – injuries she continues to recover from.

McElroy, of Apfel Lane in Chadderton, Greater Manchester, was treated for minor injuries and arrested at the scene.

He was jailed on Thursday for 17 years after earlier pleading guilty to causing death by dangerous driving.

McElroy, who was sentenced at Manchester Crown Court, was also disqualified from driving for 12 and a half years.

‘Sickening’ driver showed ‘no regard’ for others

Chief Inspector Ronald Neilson of Greater Manchester Police’s specialist operations team described McElroy’s actions as “appalling and sickening”.

He said: “McElroy knowingly and willingly chose to drive his car that evening whilst intoxicated.

“He showed absolutely no regard for the law or other road users that evening.”

He added: “Sadly, Louis and his friend were caught in the crossfire of his shameful actions and now we have lost another life to reckless driving.

“I would urge the public, to please think before you drive.

“Think not only of yourself, but your family, your friends, your loved ones and most importantly think about other people who you could hurt, whose lives you could change if you drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol.”

Mr Dube’s family previously paid tribute, describing him as a “loving son, brother, nephew, and friend to so many”.

His mother, Nompi, said: “Louis was not only my son, but he was also my best friend. I remember Louis always smiling and I am so proud of him.”

His brother, Emmanuel, added: “Louis was my role model, and nothing was ever too much; he showed love to everybody and would drop everything to help you.”

The family revealed Louis had been training for a marathon to raise funds for the homeless community.

He had also once offered shelter to a family after their home caught fire, his relatives said.

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