A “fiercely independent” grandmother was killed by a drug driver who was speeding in a 30mph zone.
Catherine Akehurst was crossing Old Shoreham Road in Hove on Saturday, September 2 2017 when Adrian Fasan knocked her down.
Fasan, now 40, was charged with dangerous driving but denied it, pleading instead to careless driving, and was due to stand trial on Tuesday, February 12. However he changed his plea to guilty to the more serious charge as the trial was due to begin.
Fasan from Loder Road, Brighton appeared at Lewes Crown Court on Thursday (February 14) and was sentenced to five years and banned from driving for nine years.
Shortly after 1pm the Brighton man was driving eastbound on the Old Shoreham Road at 45mph in a 30mph near to the cemetery in his Toyota Celica.
CCTV from businesses and a bus caught him undertaking and overtaking vehicles and having to swerve to avoid a collision with another car when it pulled out of Holmes Avenue. He also ignored the flashing “slow down” sign on the road.
The 85-year-old pedestrian, Catherine, was crossing the road near to Lullington Avenue. She stopped at the central island before crossing when the road was clear. However Fasan didn’t brake and collided with her, killing her instantly.
Collision Investigators found Fasan had cocaine and amphetamine in his system, his ABS braking system wasn’t working with a warning light visible on his dashboard and his mobile phone was connected to an 18 minute call suggesting he had also been using it at the time of the collision.
All these factors, including the manner of his driving, were put forward for the charge of dangerous driving rather than the careless charge he admitted to.
Catherine’s family paid tribute to her: “Catherine was a fiercely independent, sweet and capable 85-year-old woman who regularly crossed the road outside her house to catch the bus.
“Her local neighbours and councillors are currently petitioning for a crossing to be built along Old Shoreham Road near where Catherine was killed.
“We regularly see motorists exceed the speed limit along this stretch of road and we would like to encourage everyone to sign this petition as it will enable pedestrians, young and old, to cross safely.
“As a family we would like to express our appreciation and acknowledge the dedication of Sussex Police, in particular the forensic investigation team, in gathering evidence for this case to secure a conviction.
“PC John Beacham and PC Chis Welsh helped us through this time painful time by compassionately guiding us through the process. We would like to deeply thank all the emergency services involved and the members of the public who tried to help and comfort Catherine at the scene.
“Catherine was a well-loved mother and grandmother with a very dry sense of humour, and we will cherish our wonderful memories of her.”
PC Chris Welsh from the Serious Collision Investigation Unit said: “This collision was another tragic case where a life has been needlessly lost. Mr Fasan’s attitude that day to get behind the wheel of a car having recently consumed the type and amount of drugs he had, was nothing short of dangerous.
“Combined with his manner of driving, mobile phone use and apparent lack of concentration, he has failed to react in any way to Catherine crossing the road in front of him.
“This case is another stark reminder of the dangers of exceeding the speed limits, using a mobile phone while driving and driving while under the influence of drink or drugs. His actions, just one person’s decision, has had a huge impact on so many people’s lives.
“I would like to thank all those who stopped to help at the scene and those who came forward as witnesses which were invaluable to our investigation.”
