Ingleby Barwick van killers sentenced
A father and son, who killed a man with their van in a deliberate hit and run, have been sentenced today.
Last updated 1st May 2025
A father and son, who killed a man with their van in a deliberate hit and run, have been sentenced today.
Martin Breeze, 57, was convicted of murder and his 30-year-old son, Shaun Breeze, of manslaughter.
It follows the death of 60 year old Brian Darby, he was mown down and killed in Ingleby Barwick in February 2024.
Mr Darby was walking home with friends after a night out when Martin Breeze drove into them, in retaliation for their remonstrating with his son for riding his bike through them.
Martin Breeze was sentenced to life in prison, with a minimum of 32 for the murder of Brian Darby.
Shaun Beeze was sentenced to 16 years in prison for manslaughter.
Brian Darby was a hugely popular member of the team at RSPB Saltholme. He joined then in 2022 as a Senior Project Manager, many of his former colleagues have paid tribute:
Stuart (RSPB Volunteer):
"I've known Brian ever since he started at Saltholme, and although I'm only there on a Thursday morning, Brian helped me out on numerous occasions with his I.T. skills, enabling me to get my laptop connected to the "system", and he was always available to give his useful advice. You were a top bloke, Brian, and you will be sadly missed by all the Saltholme family."
Lydia (RSPB Staff):
"We are all going to miss Brian enormously. He was one of those people that always had time for everyone else. He always had a smile on his face too, which would automatically make your day better!"
Gill (RSPB Volunteer):
"It was a pleasure to work with Brian, he would always make an effort to smile and wave if he saw you coming upstairs. He would always have time for a chat and was extremely thoughtful and pleasant. Brian always praised Hilary and I for our hard work on the Bookcycle and often would buy from us. He was always happy to step in and help if needed and was always someone you could chat with if you were experiencing any problems. I miss him already as he was so happy and positive around everyone, always someone you felt comfortable around."