Man jailed for causing Orpington bus crash which killed Gravesend driver
17:45, 27 August 2020
updated: 18:25, 27 August 2020
A man has been jailed after a Gravesend bus driver was killed following a crash last year.
Kenneth Matcham, known as Ken, died after his Go-Ahead bus collided with another bus and a car in Sevenoaks Road, Orpington , last Halloween.
The moment a car crashed into a bus, leading to the death of a Kent man
Now, Dorjan Cera has been jailed for seven years and eight months for causing death by dangerous driving which was labelled as "beyond reckless".
The 20-year-old, of no fixed address, was also sentenced for causing death while unlicensed and uninsured, possessing a fake ID, seven counts of serious injury by dangerous driving as well as being disqualified from driving for more than 11 years.
Police were joined by scores of paramedics from the London Ambulance Service as well as 60 firefighters at the crash which happened at around 10.10pm.
Paramedics also treated 15 casualties at the scene. Three of the casualties were treated for serious injuries, and the remaining suffered minor injuries.
Kenneth's family were left "broken" following the 60-year-old's death.
Detective Inspector Richard Budd, from the roads and transport policing command, said: “Cera’s driving that night was beyond reckless, it was clearly extremely dangerous and resulted in many people being injured, and sadly one man losing his life.
“Our investigation, supported by eye witness accounts, established that Cera had been driving at speed, entering a busy road on the wrong side of the road when he collided with the bus being driven by Mr Matcham; he had made no attempt to slow down or give-way.
“When Cera spoke with officers at the scene, he provided false details – perhaps to later avoid responsibility – but his true identity was quickly established. Today, he begins a prison sentence, having been left with no other option but to plead guilty.
“Our thoughts remain with everyone who has suffered as a result of his actions.”
