UK Student Convicted of Murder for Dragging Fiancé Under Car in Twisted Game of “Chicken”

A United Kingdom student, Alice Wood, has been found guilty of murder in the death of her fiancé, Ryan Watson. The conviction comes after a three-week trial at Chester Crown Court in Cheshire, United Kingdom.

The Incident

The incident occurred on May 6, 2022, when Wood struck Watson with her Ford Fiesta after he allegedly flirted with another woman at a party. Witnesses described the altercation as a twisted game of “chicken,” where Wood repeatedly struck Watson with her car, dragging his body for 158 meters before stopping to seek help.

Surveillance Footage

Contrary to Wood’s claim that the incident was a tragic accident, surveillance footage showed her intentionally getting into her car, revving the engine, and reversing toward Watson multiple times before ultimately hitting him. The footage also captured Wood driving over 500 feet with Watson’s body wedged underneath her car.

Alcohol Involvement

Both Wood and Watson had consumed alcohol before the argument. Wood later failed a roadside breath test, indicating her intoxication at the time of the incident.

Family’s Statement

Following the conviction, Watson’s family expressed gratitude that justice had been served. They also shared their grief and mentioned how difficult it was to watch the CCTV footage of their son being hit and dragged by Wood’s car. They stated that Ryan must have been terrified in that moment, emphasizing that the person he trusted the most took his life in such a violent manner.

Sentencing

Alice Wood is scheduled to be sentenced on January 29.