Four teenagers sentenced for causing serious Bristol crash
A 19-year-old man suffered injuries including a fractured skull and brain bleed
Four teenagers have been sentenced to more than 20 years for intentionally crashing a stolen vehicle into a cyclist in Bristol last year.
The incident left a 19-year-old man with significant injuries, including a fractured skull and brain bleed.
Zak Goldsmith, Harrison Dodds, and two juveniles were involved in the deliberate attack.
Footage of the collision, found on one of the defendant's phones, was crucial in proving intent.
Emergency services responded to the scene at the junction of Mowcroft Road and Hareclive Road at approximately 5.30pm on 29th May 2025.
After initial treatment at the hospital, the victim continued his recovery at home.
An investigation revealed the involvement of a stolen black Mini Cooper, later discovered abandoned in Knowle.
Detectives employed extensive CCTV footage analysis and traditional investigative methods to identify the suspects.
The prosecution asserted the car was used as a 'weapon' in a 'cold-blooded' manner.
No motive was provided by the defendants during police interviews.
Earlier on the day of the attack, the same stolen vehicle had been used in another incident where two teenagers were injured.
None of the defendants were involved in this earlier incident, according to Judge Michael Cullum.
During the sentencing hearing at Bristol Crown Court, Judge Cullum remarked on the severity of the victim’s injuries from the second collision, stating the intent was to cause harm.
Sentences were handed down at a youth offenders' institution due to the defendants' age:
Goldsmith, 19, received four years and nine months, plus two additional months for unrelated charges.
Dodds, 18, was sentenced to seven years and four months, with a further four months for separate offences.
A 17-year-old, the driver in the second collision, received three years and six months.
The second juvenile, seen with a bladed weapon, was sentenced to four years and nine months.
Detective Inspector Rob Blake emphasised the deliberateness of the attack and the significance of the phone footage in securing guilty pleas.
"The sentences handed out today show that such violence will not be tolerated," Inspector Blake said.
“We hope the conclusion of the court proceedings brings comfort to the victim and his family.”