Daniel Tunstead failed to stop for officers but hit a lamppost has he tried to get away

A drug driver drove dangerously at speeds of 167mph during a police chase which started on the A55. Daniel Tunstead failed to stop for officers, while driving a BMW on the dual carriageway, on February 23 2026.

During a sentencing hearing today at Mold Crown Court, prosecuting Catherine Elvin said police were informed of a BMW driving suspiciously at about 11.30pm.

Officers located the vehicle and followed it until it joined the A55 at Junction 10, the driver braked harshly before accelerating to more than 100mph, said Ms Elvin.

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Police illuminated their blue lights and switched on sirens, but he failed to stop and accelerated to 167mph, before coming off at the Llanfairfechan roundabout, before turning left along Penmaenmawr Road. Tunstead then tried to turn right, but hit a lamppost. The chase last about five and a half minutes, the court heard.

Two passengers got out the car and ran off, followed by Tunstead who also tried to get away, but was tackled to the ground about 200 meters away by officers. He was tested and found to be over the legal limit for cannabis.

Tunstead, 35, of Mond Road, Widnes, admitted dangerous driving; driving while under the influence of cannabis: and driving without insurance.

The court heard he had three convictions for three offences, including criminal damage, taking a vehicle without consent and drug driving.

Defending Amy Edwards said he had mental health problems, was assessed as a low risk of reoffending and had a realistic chance of rehabilitation.

Sentencing Tunstead to eight months in jail, suspended for 12 months, Judge Nicola Jones said "You had two passengers in the car, who could have been killed that day."

He was also given 20 days rehabilitation activity requirement, banned from driving for three years and must take an extended retest. Tunstead must also pay a statutory surcharge.

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