Cousins jailed for a combined 21 years for causing fatal Chatham crash
A man died after being hit by a van driven by Tyron and David Francois
Two men, including one from Lincolnshire, who caused a fatal crash in Chatham after drinking have been handed a combined 21 years in prison.
Tyron and David Francois took turns driving a van which collided with and killed a man in November 2021.
Tyron Francois, 29 of Haig Avenue, Chatham pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving and was sentenced to 8 years imprisonment.
David Francois, 49, of Barrington Gate Holbeach, Lincolnshire was found guilty of aiding and abetting death by dangerous driving and jailed for 13 years. He has also been disqualified from driving for 17 years.
Both men were sentenced at Maidstone Crown Court yesterday (Thursday 18 December 2025).
Investigating officer DS Dawn Smith from Kent Police said:
"Our thoughts and sympathies remain with Jason's family.
"While nothing can undo their loss, we hope today's custodial sentences mark a step toward justice and brings them some measure of comfort.
"This devastating collision was caused by Tyron and David Francois’s reckless decisions on that fateful night. They chose to drive under the influence of drink and drugs and chose to continue to drive after numerous near misses.
"David’s sentence is a stark reminder that even as passenger you have a responsibility within the vehicle you are travelling in.
"Our message to all motorist and passengers, especially at this time of year, is to drive safety, taking unnecessary risks and breaking the law can cost lives."