**Heartfelt Tribute as Granddaughter Mourns Loss of ‘Bampi’ Killed by Speeding Driver**
A family has been left devastated after a much-loved grandfather, out walking his dog, was fatally struck by a vehicle driven at excessive speed by a man showing off behind the wheel. The 66-year-old victim, David Chaplin, was described by his bereft granddaughter as her “whole world” and “father figure”, as the man responsible was sentenced at Cardiff Crown Court.
The incident, which occurred in April 2023 in Caerphilly, South Wales, saw Daniel Boucher, 28, lose control of his Peugeot 207 GTI after taking a bend at a dangerous speed. According to evidence presented at trial, Boucher was seen revving his engine and driving in a manner described as “showing off” just minutes before the crash. He left his workplace at the Whitebeam Industrial Estate shortly after 5pm and, moments later on Ty Du Road, misjudged a corner, causing his vehicle to careen sideways, hit a lamppost, flip over, and strike Mr Chaplin.
Despite swift intervention from medical crews, Mr Chaplin suffered multiple severe injuries and died at the scene. The court was told that no mechanical faults could be found with the vehicle; instead, investigators determined that the fatal loss of control was due solely to the excessive speed and driver error—most likely a shift in the car’s weight known as “lift-off oversteer” when Boucher took his foot off the accelerator mid-bend.
Boucher admitted causing death by careless driving but denied the more serious charge of causing death by dangerous driving. However, after careful deliberation, the jury found him guilty of the more serious offence in May 2025. He returned to court last week for sentencing, where emotional victim impact statements were shared on behalf of Mr Chaplin’s grieving family.
In one poignant statement read aloud by prosecution counsel, Mr Chaplin’s granddaughter expressed the profound loss her family has suffered, saying she felt as if she had lost a part of herself alongside her beloved “bampi.” She remembered her grandfather as both her best friend and a man who brought joy to everyone he met, emphasising the ongoing heartache and unanswered questions that continue to weigh on the family since his tragic death.
The defence, represented by barrister Hashim Salmman, acknowledged the devastating impact on the family. Boucher, who had never previously been in trouble with the law and held a clean driving licence, was said to be “genuinely remorseful” and wished to convey his sorrow to all affected.
Presiding over sentencing, Judge Vanessa Francis reflected on the circumstances of the accident, calling it a “tragic miscalculation.” She underscored the defendant’s legal and moral responsibility to ensure the safety of all road users, particularly when travelling at speed. The judge noted that the road was otherwise clear, with only a colleague following behind, and highlighted that Boucher did remain at the scene to assist emergency services and attempt CPR on Mr Chaplin.
After considering all the facts, Judge Francis handed down a sentence of four years’ imprisonment to Boucher, as well as a driving disqualification for six years and four months. The court indicated that Boucher is likely to serve 40% of his sentence in custody before being released on licence. He will be required to pass an extended retest before he is allowed behind the wheel again.
The case has resonated with many in the local community, sparking calls for greater awareness around the devastating consequences of reckless driving. As Mr Chaplin’s family continues to come to terms with their loss, their memories and words stand as a sober reminder of the lasting impact such incidents can have on those left behind.