Man jailed for driving car into victim in Bethesda

A 19-year-old man from Gwynedd has been sentenced to 40 months in a Young Offenders Institution after deliberately driving his car into another man outside a café in Bethesda.

Thomas Baker, of Glan Ogwen, Bethesda, appeared at Caernarfon Crown Court for sentencing on Wednesday, 10 December, after pleading guilty to multiple offences at Mold Crown Court last month.

The incident occurred outside Caffi Seren on Bethesda High Street on the afternoon of Monday, 18 August. A 37-year-old male victim was left lying unconscious on the pavement after Baker’s white Audi A3 collided with him at speed.

Prior to the collision, the victim and his friend had been involved in a physical altercation with Baker and another male. CCTV footage reviewed by investigating officers showed the car turning around and accelerating towards the victim—mounting the kerb and striking him from behind.

Eyewitnesses reported that the force of impact threw the victim up in the air, leaving him with significant head wounds and other injuries. Police and ambulance crews attended in response to 999 calls from the scene, with the victim subsequently conveyed to hospital.

Officers quickly began the search for Baker, who had fled the scene in the offending vehicle. Following his detection and arrest on 19 August, Baker was charged with assault by beating, wounding with intent, driving a motor vehicle dangerously, driving whilst disqualified, and other motoring offences.

Detective Constable Gwion Jones said: “This was an appalling incident that occurred in broad daylight on a High Street busy with residents, tourists and children enjoying their summer holidays.

“Baker demonstrated a shocking disregard for the safety and wellbeing of both the victim and the wider public.

“We would like to thank everyone who came forward with information and video footage that assisted our investigation.

“Officers were able to locate, detain, and arrest Baker quickly – with multiple charges brought against him for his offending.

“We hope the community of Bethesda finds reassurance in the prompt and decisive policing response.

“We also welcome the custodial sentence handed down by the judge, which sends a clear message that such behaviour will not be tolerated in our communities.”