Former Manchester United defender Brandon Williams has pleaded guilty to dangerous driving after being caught speeding at 99mph before crashing into another vehicle in Cheshire.
High-Speed Crash on A34
Williams, 24, who was on loan to Ipswich Town during the 2023-24 season, was seen driving erratically on the A34 near Handforth on August 20, 2023.
•Eyewitnesses reported that Williams was seen with a balloon at his mouth while driving.
•He was accompanied by a female passenger, who was filming the incident on her phone.
•At 6:17pm, Williams’ Audi A3 collided with a blue Ford Fiesta before crashing into the central reservation.
Extent of Damage
The crash resulted in:
•Severe damage to Williams’ Audi A3.
• The Ford Fiesta losing a wheel after impact.
•Damage to the central reservation on the dual carriageway.
Williams’ Statement and Court Plea
Following the crash, witnesses called the police. Williams was:
•Breathalysed at the scene (results were negative for alcohol).
•Taken to hospital for treatment before being transferred to Middlewich police station for questioning.
In a prepared statement, Williams:
•Admitted to driving the vehicle.
•Denied losing control, blaming another driver for forcing him to swerve.
•Refused to comment on witness reports of him using a balloon, often associated with nitrous oxide use.
On March 14, 2025, at Chester Crown Court, Williams pleaded guilty to:
• Dangerous driving
• Driving without third-party insurance
Sentencing Scheduled for May 9
Williams, who is currently without a club, is due to be sentenced on May 9, 2025, at Chester Crown Court.
CPS: ‘A Serious Risk to Road Users’
Following the hearing, Andrew Madden, Senior Crown Prosecutor with CPS Mersey-Cheshire, stated:
“Brandon Williams’ driving on that day clearly fell far below what would be expected of a competent and careful driver.”
“Expert analysis showed that he was driving at 99mph four seconds before he hit the Ford Fiesta. Witnesses said Williams kept speeding up and then braking sharply. It was clear he wasn’t in control of the vehicle.”
“It is fortunate that no one was seriously injured or killed. To drive at 99mph in those circumstances was extremely dangerous, placing lives at risk.”
The Crown Prosecution Service thanked the witnesses who provided statements, leading to the conviction.
Potential Consequences
Williams could face:
• A lengthy driving ban
• A large fine
•A prison sentence depending on the court’s ruling in May
This case highlights ongoing concerns around dangerous driving and road safety, especially among high-profile individuals.
