Hit and run van shock
A Dudley family's new BMW car was wrecked by a hit-and-run van driver who ploughed into the driveway of their home.
Paul Williams was watching television at about 11pm when he heard an "almighty bang" and felt the house shudder.
The 44-year-old pipe fitter rushed outside to find the back of the BMW car he had bought seven weeks ago crumpled, while the front had been pushed into the wall of the house at Kestrel Road, Russells Hall Estate, last night.
The van reversed and drove off before Mr Williams could take any details.
"I heard an almighty bang and felt the whole house shake – I thought I was in a dream," said Mr Williams.
"I wondered what on earth had happened, so I went out and noticed the car was concertina-ed up against the side of the house," said Mr Williams. The back end was twisted and smashed to pieces and the front was pushed into the front of the house.
"I was in shock. As I looked back, the van straightened up and disappeared up the end of the street.
"I thought he was going to do the honourable thing and come and explain what happened but he just drove off.
"The house is on a bend but I would say if you're doing the correct speed there's no way anybody should be losing control."
Neighbour Mark Fowkes also heard the crash and said he believed the vehicle was a takeaway delivery van. "I was sitting in the front room and heard a bang and saw a van on next door's drive," he said.
"I didn't realise it had gone into the back of the car, but the van just drove off. I remember it was a white van with black or dark blue lettering."
With the car written off, Mr Williams is desperate to trace the company involved. Police have also been informed.
"Unless the van was stolen, some company somewhere is facing a hefty repair bill this morning and it would be nice if they could come forward and admit their vehicle was involved," said Mr Williams.
His wife and two sons, aged 14 and 20, were out when the crash happened and were shocked to find the damage when they returned home.