Man's driving before fatal collision in Chester 'atrocious'

Previously, we reported on the sentencing of 31-year-old Paul Wright, of Westenra Avenue, who had pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving.

Chester Crown Court heard on Thursday, January 25 that Wright drove "like a maniac" on Liverpool Road in his BMW X5, going at speeds of nearly 60mph, giving the finger to a passing motorist and running red lights at the junction with Beechway.

Driving out of that junction, yards from her home and with her 21-year-old daughter Olivia as a passenger, was 57-year-old Jane Hickson, who the court heard was completely not at fault for the collision. Despite the best efforts of paramedics, Mrs Hickson passed away at the scene.

The judge rejected the defendant's excuse, that he was rushing to the Countess of Chester Hospital because his partner had told him their new-born baby had "gone missing" in the hospital, as "ridiculous".

Police have now spoken following the sentencing, which saw Wright jailed for nine years, of which two-thirds must be served behind bars.

Sergeant Simon Degg, of the Cheshire Police Serious and Complex Collision Investigation Unit, said: “This collision occurred due to the extremely poor and dangerous driving of Paul Wright over a prolonged period of time. His driving can only be described as atrocious and pointless.

“His actions have devastated the lives of all those involved, including his own family. However, the family and friends of Jane have suffered the most severe and horrific loss.

“Jane was a dedicated wife, devoted mother and clearly a wonderful lady who was loved by all who met her. Her family have approached this investigation, and subsequent criminal proceedings, with the most admirable poise and dignity, and our thoughts are with them at this time.”

Jane Hickson died in the collision on Liverpool Road, Chester.

In addition to his prison sentence, Wright was also banned from driving for 14 years. Once he has completed his 14-year driving ban he will also be required to undertake an extended driving test.

Sergeant Degg added: “Dashcam footage provided by a number of witnesses has proved vital in allowing us to establish the full sequence of events, and I would like to commend all of the members of the public and witnesses who came forward during our investigation.

“Without their support and willingness to help, I have no doubt that this investigation would have been greatly diluted.

“Driving of this nature should never be tolerated by any community, and if anything positive can come from this devastating incident, I hope that it encourages other motorists to share their footage if they witness people driving dangerously.”

To report dangerous driving and upload video footage, visit https://www.cheshire.police.uk/ro/report/rti/rti-beta-2.1/report-a-road-traffic-incident/ or call Cheshire Police on 101. In an emergency always dial 999.