A man who caused a fatal crash and abandoned his critically injured girlfriend at the scene has been apprehended driving again after being released from prison.
Nathan Towers, 33, was responsible for the death of 20-year-old Jess Waterman in February 2022 due to reckless driving on Houblons Hill, Epping. The unlicensed and uninsured driver was convicted of careless driving, perverting the course of justice, and fraud.
Jess, a resident of Bishop’s Stortford, Hertfordshire, passed away in the hospital less than 24 hours after the accident, only three days before her 21st birthday. Her family fondly remembered her as a “beautiful, vibrant, and caring young woman.”
Towers, residing in Broadoaks, Epping, received a sentence of four years and three months in prison in June 2023 but was subsequently released on license.
On March 4, he was caught driving on the A127 in Southend while disqualified. Towers received a six-month prison term at Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court on March 5. Additionally, he was banned from driving for six months and 21 days, and ordered to pay £85 in costs along with a £154 victim surcharge.
Jess’ family expressed their dismay upon discovering that Towers, who spent only 20 months in prison, was apprehended for speeding and returned to jail.
They stated, “He has shown no remorse for taking the life of our beloved daughter and for his reprehensible actions. Despite being on license until August 2027, he was caught speeding last week and sent back to prison.”
The family emphasized Towers’ lack of driving qualifications, labeling him as a severe hazard on the road with a blatant disregard for traffic laws.
Detective Inspector Mark Fraser of Essex Police’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit remarked on Towers’ callous behavior following the fatal crash, highlighting his disregard for Jess and her well-being.
Jess’ family cherished her memory, describing her as a radiant and compassionate individual who touched numerous lives. They expressed that no sentence could ever suffice as they continue to mourn her loss.
The family has been actively advocating for stricter penalties against unlicensed driving with the backing of their local MP, Josh Dean.
Mr. Dean, the Labour MP representing Hertford and Stortford, underscored the necessity for harsher penalties to prevent individuals who cause fatalities while driving without a license from being on the roads.