A Scottish man accused of killing his passenger in a crash on a dual carriageway faces trial next year. Matthew Oliver Newton died in a single vehicle collision on the A69 at Throckley just outside of Newcastle at 11.30pm on November 28.
It was reported that a grey Ford Raptor car was travelling westbound when it left the road. Emergency services rushed to the scene to treat Mr Newton but despite the best efforts of medics, the 28-year-old died at the scene.
The driver of the car, Ross Neville, was arrested and subsequently charged with causing death by dangerous driving. Appearing at Newcastle Crown Court via video link from custody on Monday, the 34-year-old, of Canobie, Dumfries, Scotland, pleaded not guilty to the charge.
Following an adjourned application made on his behalf by his counsel, Paul Greaney KC, Neville was granted bail by Judge Julie Clemitson. He will next appear before the court for a further plea hearing in the case, in January.
A trial date has provisionally been set for February 2026. Following Mr Newton’s death, his family said: “Matthew was too good for his own good, 28 years old with his whole life ahead of him.
“Loved and adored son of Anna and Mike, kindest and best big brother to George and Alexis and idolised grandson of David and Valerie. Matthew was very proud of the business he started and built up, Cumbria Motor Trading.
“It was in his words ‘flat out busy’. Matthew lived his life to the absolute fullest and had the best friends anyone could wish for.
“He was an amazing human who would do anything for anyone. Our house is far too quiet now without him. When Matthew was in a room, we all knew it.
“Matthew’s life will always be celebrated by his family and all that knew him. He will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered for his beautiful personality, his kindest heart and his dazzling smile.”
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