RAF airman Gabriel Cousins caused a crash near Haydon Bridge after falling asleep at the wheel, injuring five people
Corporal Gabriel Cousins Sentenced for Dangerous Driving
Corporal Gabriel Cousins was tired after celebrating a promotion and watching an England football match. He started his journey from a hotel in Newcastle to RAF Spadeadam in Cumbria on December 11, 2022.
Newcastle Crown Court heard that he was driving along the A69, about two miles east of Haydon Bridge in Northumberland. His BMW crossed into the opposite lane and collided head-on with two cars.
Injuries and Impact on Victims
| Vehicle | Injuries | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Audi A3 | Fractured shoulder, arm, pelvis, brain bleed, lung clot | Serious, life-changing injuries |
| VW Up | Whiplash-type injuries | Minor injuries |
The couple in the Audi A3, the first car hit, suffered serious injuries that left them with mobility problems. Three people in the VW Up experienced whiplash-type injuries. All five victims were taken to the RVI in Newcastle.
Prosecutor Kevin Wardlaw stated that the male driver of the Audi had multiple injuries. His partner, who was in the passenger seat, suffered a brain bleed and a clot on her lung.
Cousins told police, “When I woke up it had happened.” He admitted that he had started to “drift off” early in the journey and believed he likely fell asleep.
Legal Proceedings and Sentencing
Mr. Wardlaw noted that Cousins chose to continue driving while fatigued. He mentioned the “physical, psychological and financial impact” on the victims.
Cousins, 27, from RAF Leeming, Northallerton, North Yorks, pleaded guilty to two charges of causing serious injury by dangerous driving and three charges of causing bodily injury by wilful misconduct.
Judge Tom Moran stated, “In short, you momentarily fell asleep causing a catastrophic collision.” He emphasized the dangers of driving while tired and the potential for serious harm.
Judge Moran sentenced Cousins to two years in prison, suspended for two years, along with 300 hours of unpaid work and a three-year driving ban. The judge noted that Cousins poses a low risk of re-offending and that his absence from the RAF could impact defense capabilities.
Character References and Background
Defending attorney Eddison Flint provided references highlighting Cousins’ positive character. He mentioned that Cousins’ promotion prospects have been on hold during the proceedings.
Cousins has served in the RAF for nine years and is one of only four individuals in the country who can manage “above top secret” communications systems in conflict areas. He also represents the RAF in basketball and travels internationally for refereeing and competition.
