Driver accused of killing two friends and sheep while speeding over 100mph on drugs in West Lothian

A driver is accused of killing two young men while under the influence of drugs in a high-speed crash.

Taylor Hanlon, 27, was allegedly behind the wheel of a Subaru car during the fatal incident on the A706 near Kepscaith Farm in West Lothian on August 29, 2020.

Connor Elgey, 19, and Troi Lawton, 23, were said to have been passengers in the vehicle.

Prosecutors claim Hanlon had consumed a quantity of cannabis, cocaine and diazepam.

It is alleged he was driving at one stage at 111mph in a 60mph zone at the North British Distillery in West Lothian.

The charge then further states he later failed to keep control of the car having taken a corner at excessive speed.

It is said the car mounted a kerb, hit a wall before the it became airborne and landed in a field.

The vehicle then repeatedly overturned, also killing two sheep.

Connor and Troi were said to have been left so severely injured that they did not survive.

It is claimed two other passengers were also badly hurt as a result.

Hanlon faced a total of eight charges at the High Court in Glasgow including causing the deaths of Connor and Troi as well seriously injuring the other two passengers by dangerous driving.

His QC John Scullion told the hearing: “He pleads not guilty to the indictment. The defence are in a position to proceed to trial.”

Prosecutor Chris McKenna said the Crown were also prepared.

Lady Stacey then set a trial due to begin on May 15 next year in Livingston.

The case could last around four days.

Hanlon, of Bathgate, West Lothian, remains on bail in the meantime.