On May 17, a tragic incident unfolded in the car park of Brecon High School, resulting in a young man sustaining a fractured skull and permanent brain damage. Chanelle Guest, then 17, was driving a Renault Clio with her friend sitting on the bonnet—a dangerous and reckless act that led to severe consequences.
CCTV footage revealed the Clio moving while a passenger leaned out, though neither were the defendant at that moment. During a right-hand turn, the victim slipped off the bonnet, hitting his head on the tarmac. Emergency services arrived promptly, finding him “covered in blood” and “lifeless” in a police officer’s arms.
The victim, who was 17 at the time, suffered a complex fracture on the left side of his skull, multiple brain contusions, and bleeding in his brain. After several days in critical care, he was discharged but quickly readmitted due to facial drooping and inability to close his left eye. His injuries have resulted in long-term brain damage affecting his memory, mental health, and overall day-to-day functioning.
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The victim’s father shared a heartfelt statement expressing the devastating impact of the accident. Once a vibrant young man studying engineering and working as a lifeguard, the victim now struggles with mood changes, aggression, disrupted sleep, nightmares, and depression. The father described seeing his son “covered in blood and lifeless” and lamented the lasting changes to his personality and quality of life.
Guest, from Lower Penywaun, Llanddew, Brecon, admitted causing serious injury by dangerous driving. She was unlicensed to drive the vehicle, which wasn’t hers. Despite her previous good character, she acknowledged the gravity of her actions.
In court, her defense highlighted her remorse and pointed out that the victim’s decision to sit on the bonnet contributed to the accident. Judge Jeremy Jenkins recognized the incident as a tragic outcome of youthful recklessness but noted the serious consequences for the victim.
Guest received a 21-month suspended sentence in a young offenders institute, 100 hours of unpaid work, and a two-year driving ban. The sentence reflects a balance of accountability and recognition of her remorse and lack of criminal intent.
This tragic event serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers of irresponsible behavior behind the wheel and the profound effects such incidents can have on young lives.