A man has been found not guilty of causing death by dangerous driving after a burglary resulting in a vehicle chase caused the death of a teenager.
In the early hours of January 24, 2023, Callum Duncan spotted three 3 burglars stealing motorcycles from his home in Reddish. The burglars had become aware that the bikes were stored there having seen one advertised on Facebook.
Duncan, realising what was happening, gave chase to the burglars in his Golf GTI. Teenager Dean Barnes eventually abandoned the bike he had stolen and jumped on the back of the Husqvarna being driven by fellow burglar 36-year-old Adam Norman. A third bike had been taken by 21-year-old Alexander Riley. During the chase, Norman crashed the bike after clipping a nearby car, instantly killing 16-year-old Barnes. Both Callum Duncan and Adam Norman were charged with causing death by dangerous driving.
A two-week trial at Minshull Street Court, which concluded on July 10, 2025, determined that Duncan was not guilty of causing the teenager’s death. Adam Norman, having already pleaded guilty to burglary, was found guilty of causing death by dangerous driving.
If a driver is accused of a serious offence such as causing death by dangerous driving, solicitors experienced in defending similar cases can give sound advice on how to plead, possible defences, sentences and mitigating factors.
If you find yourself accused of committing any driving offence, get in touch with us at Auriga Advocates. We have an excellent track record of defending driving offences, and will provide the support and guidance you need as you progress through your case.