A driver who had been behind the wheel for just three weeks caused a major incident after crashing his BMW into a mains gas supply in Tidworth.
Albert Kweku-Duah, 21, of South Marston, Swindon, was driving a blue BMW 116i along Station Road on the evening of August 6 when he collided with the gas supply, causing a substantial leak.
Emergency services declared a major incident and residents living nearby were evacuated from their homes overnight while the scene was made safe.
Some residents were left without gas for a week following the crash.
Kweku-Duah was arrested and charged with careless driving and driving without insurance.
He appeared at Salisbury Magistrates’ Court on Friday, October 30, where he pleaded guilty to both offences.
For careless driving, Kweku-Duah was fined £511 and ordered to pay a £204 surcharge.
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His driving record was also endorsed with five penalty points.
PC Nicola Blake said: “Kweku-Duah had only been driving for three weeks when he crashed his vehicle, causing significant disruption to residents nearby, some of whom were without gas for a week.
“His careless driving impacted a number of people and required attendance from all emergency services. It is fortunate that nobody was injured as a result of his actions.”
The case relating to the offence of driving without insurance was adjourned for special reasons.
Kweku-Duah is due to appear again at Salisbury Magistrates’ Court on March 30, 2028.
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