The Time Keith Moon Was Charged Of Murder

The allure of sex, drugs, and rock ‘n’ roll has often intertwined the world of music with controversy and crime. From minor skirmishes at awards ceremonies to more serious accusations, the annals of pop culture have witnessed musicians being embroiled in murder cases or even convicted of the act. Keith Moon, known for his wayward ways, found himself at the center of such a tragedy.

The Wild Ways of Keith Moon

Keith Moon, the iconic drummer of The Who, was notorious for his wild and unpredictable behavior. His escapades are legendary, often blurring the line between audacious antics and dangerous situations. Pete Townshend, The Who’s guitarist, once recounted an incident that showcased Moon’s extreme behavior.

“Keith Moon, God rest his soul, once drove his car through the glass doors of a hotel, driving all the way up to the reception desk, got out and asked for the key to his room.”

This should have served as a concerning sign that his ‘antics’ were being pushed a little too far.

Moon’s life was a constant rollercoaster ride, pushing boundaries and courting danger. In one memorable episode, he narrowly escaped being the victim of murder when he paid an impromptu helicopter visit to Oliver Reed’s house. Reed, standing on his roof wearing nothing but a bathrobe, attempted to shoot down the helicopter with a shotgun. Moon’s existence became emblematic of the excesses and risks that defined the sex, drugs, and rock ‘n’ roll ethos prevalent in the music industry.

The Tragic Incident in Hatfield

In 1970, a fateful night in Hatfield, Hertfordshire, turned into a heartbreaking tragedy for Keith Moon and those involved. After a night at a local pub, Moon’s car found itself surrounded by a group of local skinheads who took offense to his flamboyant demeanor. Moon’s chauffeur, Neil Boland, stepped out of the vehicle in an attempt to defuse the situation while Moon remained inside. However, overwhelmed by fear that the mob would attack him, Moon made a reckless decision.

Despite being intoxicated, lacking a license and insurance, Moon took control of the wheel and forced the car forward, hoping to escape the escalating confrontation. Unbeknownst to those inside the vehicle, Boland had become trapped underneath it. Tragically, as Moon sped away, Boland was dragged along the street. He succumbed to his injuries later that night at the hospital.

The Legal Proceedings and Aftermath

Keith Moon faced charges related to Neil Boland’s death, as well as several driving offenses. While he was ultimately cleared of causing Boland’s death, it was deemed accidental, Moon was found guilty of the driving charges. The judge, acknowledging the circumstances, stated in court documents:

“You had no choice but to act the way you did, and no moral culpability is attached to you.”

Nevertheless, the incident left an indelible mark on Moon’s life and haunted him until his premature death at the age of 32.