A teenager involved in a hit-and-run incident that severely injured a young boy was aided in covering up the crime by his family members, resulting in their imprisonment. The accident occurred when Kaylem Longhurst, now 18, struck and harmed Arlo Buckley, who was eight years old at the time, with an off-road motorbike in Shotton, Flintshire, back in September 2024. Arlo, then six, sustained serious injuries and needed immediate medical attention at Alder Hey Children’s Hospital, followed by months of ongoing care.
After the collision, Longhurst fled the scene. Evidence presented in court revealed that his family members actively participated in concealing the crime by destroying incriminating evidence, such as burning Longhurst’s clothes, concealing the motorbike, and aiding his escape to York, as reported by North Wales Live.
Although Longhurst confessed to dangerous driving, driving without a valid license, adequate vision, and insurance in connection to the incident, he denied involvement in a conspiracy to obstruct justice along with his mother, Terry Follows, and his sister’s former partner, Shane Hunt. However, all three were convicted of the charge after a trial. Longhurst’s sister, Cara Haran, acknowledged her role in the cover-up.
The four individuals were recently sentenced at Caernarfon Crown Court by Judge Simon Mills. Temporary Detective Inspector Katie Davies from North Wales Police’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit expressed deep concern over the incident, emphasizing the severe injuries inflicted on the child and the reckless behavior of the responsible party. Davies commended the courage of Arlo and his family and thanked the public for providing crucial information.
The imposed sentence reflects the dedicated efforts of law enforcement officers, notably Detective Constable Donna Vernon, and sends a strong message that not only offenders but also those aiding them in avoiding accountability will be vigorously pursued.
