Jake Bolton jailed for fatal drug-impaired crash in Lancashire

Jake Bolton, 36, has been jailed following a fatal collision in Bamber Bridge, Lancashire, that killed 37-year-old Himabindu Yadla. The incident occurred on Tramway Lane on October 24, 2024, while Bolton was driving home from his traffic maintenance job.

Investigations revealed that Bolton had twice the legal limit of cannabis in his bloodstream due to consuming edibles the previous weekend, and he also tested positive for cocaine. At the time of the crash, he was reportedly sleep-deprived. Police also discovered 6g of cannabis hidden in a first-aid box in his vehicle.

Ms. Yadla sustained severe brain injuries and remained on life support at Royal Preston Hospital for 18 days before passing away on November 11. During the emergency 999 call following the crash, Bolton stated, “I’ve just run somebody over.”

Bolton pleaded guilty to causing death by careless driving, driving with cannabis above the legal limit, driving without valid insurance, and possession of a controlled substance.