In a disturbing turn of events, a man who fatally struck a cyclist and then feigned inability to stand trial was discovered engaging in a game of rugby.
Stephen Naylor, aged 41, was behind the wheel of his Audi, speeding over 120mph when he caused the death of motorcyclist Owen Baugh on the M62 in April 2021. Following the collision, Naylor’s vehicle collided with Baugh’s motorbike, ejecting him onto the road near Liverpool. Tragically, Baugh, a 23-year-old, succumbed to his injuries after being struck by another vehicle while lying on the motorway. Naylor sustained severe injuries himself when he was impaled on a wooden fence as his car veered off the road.
After spending weeks recuperating in the hospital, Naylor’s wife, Lisa, asserted that the crash had enduring effects on his health even post-discharge.
Naylor and his wife exaggerated the extent of his injuries and health condition in an egregious effort to avoid legal proceedings and evade accountability for the fatal crash.
The series of deceit began when Naylor left the hospital in June 2021 and failed to provide a blood sample to law enforcement. A psychiatrist later reported that Naylor exhibited distress and hyperventilation during a video consultation, leading to his acquittal in July 2023.
His wife alleged that Naylor experienced difficulties with his walking and memory decline. The fabric of lies began to unravel dramatically in October 2024 when authorities questioned the couple regarding a video showing Naylor playing rugby sent to his wife in April 2023.
Further evidence revealed messages discussing plans for attending an ’80s disco night. Surveillance footage captured Naylor visiting Aldi and Morrisons in June and July 2023, carrying his own shopping bags. Despite incriminating footage and messages, the couple persistently maintained their false narrative during Naylor’s arrest as captured by bodycam footage from Merseyside Police officers.
During an attempt to leave his residence, Naylor was observed using crutches while seeking assistance from a police officer, despite the damning evidence against him.
Naylor subsequently confessed to causing death by dangerous driving and perverting the course of justice, leading to a 12-year prison sentence. Lisa Naylor was convicted of perverting the course of justice and received a four-and-a-half-year prison term.
Expressing their anguish, Owen Baugh’s family stated, “Since Mr. Naylor’s actions on the night of April 25, 2021, our lives have been completely and devastatingly shattered.” The repercussions have extended globally, affecting friends in America, Pakistan, and Dubai, while Baugh’s girlfriend continues to struggle with daily life challenges.
The family extended gratitude to emergency services, members of the public who offered assistance, and specifically acknowledged the unwavering efforts of Merseyside Police, particularly Sgt. Andy Roper, Claire, and Jack, in ensuring justice for the unrepentant individual responsible for the tragedy.