Steven Naylor is accused of causing Owen Baugh’s death by dangerous driving while Lisa Naylor faces a count of perverting justice
Owen Baugh(Image: Family handout)
A man and woman have appeared in court in connection with a fatal crash on the M62. Owen Baugh was riding his Suzuki motorbike on the westbound carriageway of the motorway between junction seven at Rainhill Stoops and junction six at Tarbock Island when his vehicle was involved in a collision with a black Audi A4.
The 23-year-old, from Manchester, was rushed to hospital for treatment following the incident in the early hours of Sunday, April 25 2021, but was pronounced dead a short time. Nearly four years later, Steven and Lisa Naylor have been charged with offences in relation to the crash.
Both appeared before Liverpool Crown Court this morning, Wednesday, in order to face the respective counts against them. The former, aged 40 and of Spinney Close in St Helens, spoke only to confirm his name and date of birth and was not asked to enter pleas to alleged offences of causing Mr Baugh’s death by dangerous driving and perverting the course of justice.
Lisa Naylor, also of Spinney Close, meanwhile pleaded not guilty to the charge of perverting the course of justice, which states that the 39-year-old “falsely represented that Steven Naylor was medically unfit in order to avoid prosecution for road traffic offences” between April 25 2021 and October 8 2024. The two defendants were released on conditional bail ahead of a further hearing on March 31, with a 10-day trial scheduled for November 10.
Paying tribute to Mr Baugh in the wake of his death, his family said in a statement: “Owen was a kind hearted, intelligent, hard working and caring person who had not only a unique look but a unique personality. He made sure he included everyone regardless of who they were, from his closest friends and family to people he had just met.
“Owen would go above and beyond for people to make sure everyone was happy, healthy and safe. Owen had a presence which filled any room he walked in and to anyone he was around.
“He loved his hobbies and passions but his friends and family more. He will be missed by everyone. During his time with us, he achieved so much and did so much for others. A true gentleman like no other, a big part of anyone whose life he was in will now be missing. Rest in peace Owen.”