Ribchester driver accused of causing Longridge man's death in Grimsargh road accident denies charge in court
A motorist accused of causing his passenger's death while driving carelessly under the influence of drugs has pleaded not guilty to the offence.
Sean Harrison Dowbekin, 26, of Preston Road, Ribchester, denies causing Jake Beatty's death on Christmas Eve 2018 - a result of an accident at 6am on November 24, 2018, in which the Audi A3 Dowbekin was driving overturned.
The road was closed for several hours while police officers examined the scene on Preston Road, Grimsargh.
It is alleged Dowbekin drove without due care and attention, at a time he was unfit to drive through drugs.
Members of Mr Beatty's family were present at the emotional plea hearing at Preston Crown Court.
Judge Simon Medland QC explained to them that the earliest the courts could accommodate his trial was November 15, 2021 - which will be almost three years after the tragedy - due to delays caused in part by the pandemic.
Dowbekin was granted bail in the meantime.
(proceeding)