Daily Mirror (Northern Ireland)
MAN KILLED AS CAR SMASHES INTO PUB
Driver arrested on suspicion of murder
A MAN was killed when a car ploughed into a pub in the early hours yesterday, sparking a police murder probe.
The 36-year-old died and three others were injured when the vehicle smashed through a fence in an outdoor smoking area.
The driver, a 40-year-old man, was arrested on suspicion of murder.
Police said his female passenger was taken to hospital with minor injuries.
The Nissan is understood to have crossed the road, mounted the pavement and destroyed a trellis before ploughing into a window.
Some punters were pinned against the wall, while others were trapped underneath the car. Sources close to the investigation say it is not believed the collision was a targeted attack. Regulars say the man who died had been enjoying a meal at the pub with his wife.
A 34-year-old woman was injured in the crash, at the Spinnaker Inn, in Colchester, Essex, around 12.50am yesterday.
Ian Winter, 34, and his friend Carl Joyner, 33, were also hurt. It is understood Ian has “life-changing injuries” to his legs and hips.
Ian’s half-brother, James Howard, said: “I don’t know the full extent of his injuries, he is under sedation and being monitored. It’s devastating, I’m still in shock. I hope he pulls through.”
Carl’s stepmum, Tina Joyner, said: “They were standing in the smoking area and this car ploughed into them. I don’t know what injuries he has. He was just down the pub having a drink with his friends.”
Neighbour Simone Rowe said: “I spoke to a chap who was in there at the time.
“He said it was like a bomb went off and everyone just got on the floor.
“There were people trapped under the car and they were pinned against the wall.” Essex Police say the suspect was arrested on suspicion of murder, GBH with intent, death by dangerous driving, and assault. A spokeswoman added: “We would like to speak to any who saw a white Nissan Qashqai in the local area before the incident took place and anyone who was in the pub at the time.”
He is under sedation. I hope that he pulls through
JAMES HOWARD ON HIS HALF-BROTHER’S INJURIES