A family has been sentenced to jail for assisting a teenager in concealing a hit-and-run incident that severely injured a young boy. The teenager, Kaylem Longhurst, who is now 18 years old, struck and caused serious harm to Arlo Buckley, who is now eight years old, while riding an off-road motorbike in Shotton, Flintshire, in September 2024. Arlo was dragged by the bike while crossing Central Drive, leading to him needing urgent medical attention at Alder Hey Children’s Hospital and extensive ongoing care.
Longhurst fled the scene after the collision. It was revealed in court that his family members tried to help him avoid legal consequences by burning his clothes, hiding the motorbike in an alley, and driving him away to York, as reported by North Wales Live.
Longhurst, currently residing in Nantwich, Cheshire, had confessed to dangerous driving, driving without a license, proper eyesight, and insurance related to the incident. However, he denied involvement in a conspiracy to pervert the course of justice, along with his mother, Terry Follows, and his sister’s former partner, Shane Hunt. All three were found guilty of the charge after a trial, while Longhurst’s sister, Cara Haran, admitted her part in the conspiracy.
The four individuals were sentenced at Caernarfon Crown Court by Judge Simon Mills. Temporary Detective Inspector Katie Davies from North Wales Police’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit expressed dismay over the incident, emphasizing the severe injuries inflicted on a young child and the irresponsible actions of the person responsible for fleeing the scene. Davies commended the bravery of Arlo and his family, as well as the public who provided crucial information.
The sentence handed down reflects the dedicated work of law enforcement officers, particularly Detective Constable Donna Vernon, sending a clear message that offenders and those aiding them in avoiding accountability will be vigorously pursued.