Watch moment shirtless driver runs away after crashing car during police chase

Leighton Watson first came to the attention of police at around 4.30pm on July 11 2025 when he was seen driving a Honda erratically.

The 19-year-old failed to stop for police and sped off on Petland Avenue in Billingham, near Middlesbrough.

He weaved through traffic and hit speeds of 70mph in a 30mph zone - and at one point even mounted the pavemet in a bid to escape police.

Watson also drove through a bush and over a field in a desperate attempt to escape, but eventually came to a stop after crashing into a bollard.

He then left the car and ran away, but was found shortly after hiding in a back garden.

He was jailed for five years at Teesside Crown Court on May 15 after admitting admitted dangerous driving, driving with no licence or insurance, and possession of a class C drug.

Watson also pleaded guilty to possession of a prohibited firearm at an earlier hearing after officers seized a gun in a garden in Billingham in December last year after Watson’s DNA was found on the weapon.

He was also banned from driving for five years and must pass an extended re-test before he is allowed a licence.

Investigating officer Emma Curbishley said: “Watson showed an absolute disregard to other road users and pedestrians that day by swerving in and out of traffic and mounting the pavement. It was extremely dangerous and reckless, and his actions could have caused serious injuries or worse.

“I’m pleased he has been given a prison sentence to reflect the seriousness of his crimes. We will not tolerate people using our roads in such a dangerous manner and we can and will take action against them.”