Drink Driving Builder Sentenced After Fatal M23 Crash
Vilius Domarkas has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for causing the death of highways worker Anthony Howe due to dangerous driving while under the influence.
Incident Overview
On July 8, 2026, a tragic incident occurred on the M23 near Gatwick Airport, leading to the death of 65-year-old highways worker Anthony Howe. The accident involved Vilius Domarkas, a 38-year-old builder, who was driving a Citroen Relay van when he struck Howe as he was working on the motorway.
Legal Consequences
Following the accident, Domarkas was sentenced to 10 years in prison for causing death by dangerous driving. The ruling was made on September 29, 2026, reflecting the severity of the incident and the consequences of his actions.
Alcohol Influence
Investigations revealed that Domarkas had a blood alcohol level of 221 microgrammes per 100 millilitres, significantly exceeding the legal limit of 80 microgrammes. This level was recorded four hours after the crash, indicating that he was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the incident.
Background of the Offender
Domarkas had recently arrived in the UK from Lithuania, having just completed a rehabilitation programme for alcohol addiction. His return to the UK and subsequent actions have raised concerns about the challenges faced by individuals recovering from addiction and the potential risks they pose to public safety.
Driving Disqualification
In addition to his prison sentence, Domarkas has been disqualified from driving for 16 years and eight months. This disqualification is intended to prevent any future incidents and to reinforce the seriousness of driving under the influence.
Impact on the Community
The death of Anthony Howe has not only devastated his family but has also highlighted the dangers of drink driving, particularly in relation to the safety of workers on roadways. The incident serves as a grim reminder of the responsibilities that drivers have towards others, especially vulnerable workers in high-risk environments.
Conclusion
The case of Vilius Domarkas underscores the critical need for stringent measures against drink driving and the importance of ensuring that individuals who have struggled with addiction are supported in their recovery. The loss of lives, such as that of Anthony Howe, should galvanise efforts to improve road safety and protect those who work on our highways.