A violent wedding celebration turned to tragedy when a driver deliberately ploughed into a good samaritan who was trying to break up a fight, a court has heard.
Liam James Norton, 32, has been sentenced to nine years in prison for the manslaughter of 38-year-old Matthew Titterton, who died trying to protect others during the chaotic scenes outside a Cheshire hotel.
A Celebration Turns Deadly
The incident occurred on October 8, 2022, following wedding celebrations at Nunsmere Hall Hotel in Oakmere. What began as a joyous occasion descended into violence when a fight broke out among guests in the car park during the evening.
Matthew Titterton, described in court as a "kind-hearted family man," had stepped in to act as peacemaker when Norton deliberately reversed his Vauxhall Insignia into him, causing catastrophic injuries.
The Moment of Impact
CCTV footage presented to Chester Crown Court showed the horrifying moment Norton accelerated backwards, striking Mr Titterton with such force that he was thrown into the air.
Eyewitnesses described hearing the engine rev loudly before the vehicle mounted the pavement and struck the victim. Norton then drove away from the scene without stopping to help.
Emergency Response and Aftermath
Despite the efforts of paramedics and hospital staff, Mr Titterton died from his injuries the following day, leaving behind a devastated family and community.
In a victim impact statement, his family described Matthew as "the rock of our family" and said his loss had left "a void that can never be filled."
Justice Served
Judge Simon Berkson, passing sentence, told Norton: "You used your car as a weapon with devastating consequences. This was not a momentary lapse in judgement but a deliberate act of violence."
Norton was found guilty of manslaughter and dangerous driving after a trial. He must serve at least two-thirds of his sentence before being considered for parole.
The case serves as a tragic reminder of how quickly situations can escalate and the devastating consequences of using a vehicle as a weapon.
