Geoffrey Counsell statement on failed M5 firework tragedy prosecution

The organiser of a fireworks display which lead to the deaths of seven people in a motorway pile-up walked free from court after a judge threw out the case against him. Geoffrey Counsell, 51, was in charge of the massive event at a rugby club which saw 1,500 rockets fired during a 15 minute display. But weather conditions caused an "impenetrable smog" from the pyrotechnics to billow onto the adjacent M5 in Somerset. Dozens of cars collided and burst into flames, killing seven and injuring 51 people in one of the worst road traffic accidents ever in the UK. He faced a charge of failing to ensure the safety of others - but yesterday (Tues) the jury at Bristol Crown Court were directed to return a verdict of not guilty.