Amy Evans: Man cleared of causing Wendover crash death by reason of insanity

Guy Portwin, 72, of Marsh Road in Little Kimble, was charged with causing the fatal crash that resulted in the death of Amy Evans, from Great Kingshill, more than three years ago.

Following a trial last week at Aylesbury Crown Court, a unanimous jury found that Portwin was not guilty of causing Ms Evans' death by reason of insanity.

He was also cleared of two additional charges of causing serious injury by dangerous driving.

The family of Amy Evans revealed that they are "devastated" by the verdict (Image: Thames Valley Police)

Following the ruling, Ms Evans' sister, Stephanie Barrett, revealed her family were "devastated" by the verdict and were still heartbroken over her death.

Ms Barrett said: "It has been incredibly difficult to come to terms with losing Amy, she was an amazing mother, partner, sister, and daughter who touched the hearts of everyone she met.

“Amy was taken from us far too soon and the tragic crash has turned all of our lives upside down.

"As a family, we have struggled to move on from the events that day and we are all devastated with today’s verdict."

On June 7, 2019, Ms Evans lost her life in three-way car crash on the Wendover Bypass, near Aylesbury. The crash involved her Ford Focus, a VW Golf and a Land Rover Discovery, which was driven by Mr Portwin.

Emergency responders rushed to her aid but Ms Evans was pronounced dead on the scene. Two children who had been passengers in Ms Evans' car were taken to hospital after they suffered serious injuries in the crash.

Following a week-long trial, the jury at Aylesbury Crown Court found that Mr Portwin was not guilty by reason of insanity of causing death by dangerous driving and two counts of causing serious injury by dangerous driving.

Mr Portwin was discharged absolutely after the verdict was delivered on Friday.

A verdict of not guilty by reason of insanity indicates that Mr Portwin was not capable of criminal intent went the crash occurred due to mental illness or incapacitation.

Ms Barrett added: "We remain forever grateful for the support we’ve received from Thames Valley Police along with the ambulance and fire and rescue teams who attended to the scene."

In the lead-up to and during the trial, Ms Evans' family was supported by law firm Moore Barlow.

Speaking after the verdict, partner Matthew Claxson said: "Whilst we acknowledge the jury’s verdict, we nevertheless find it difficult to accept.

"For Amy’s family, they will forever have to live with the impact of losing a loved one.

"We are disappointed with the outcome of today’s trial, and we will continue to support the family."