Lorry driver ran red light and killed church cleaner

Chris Tindall
January 17, 2025

 

 

An HGV driver has been jailed for three years and nine months after he failed to stop at a red light and killed a pedestrian.

Dariusz Meczynski, 51, was sentenced following a hearing last month at Oxford Crown Court during which he pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving.

The court heard how Meczynski was driving a lorry on Oxford Road in Kidlington on 20 October 2022, when he drove through a red light at a pedestrian crossing and collided with 74-year-old Patricia Grace who was on her way to clean her local church.

Thames Valley Police said Grace sustained fatal injuries and died at the scene.

Meczynski, of no fixed abode, was later arrested and charged by postal requisition.

Lead investigator Richard Thorpe of the serious collision investigation unit said: “Tragically, as a direct result of Meczynski’s driving, he failed to stop at a red traffic light and collided with the victim resulting in her death.

“My thoughts and the thoughts of all of us remain with the victim’s family and friends who have shown great dignity and patience while we brought this case to court.

“Meczynski will now have to serve a prison sentence, where I hope he reflects on this needless and avoidable tragedy.”

Following the verdict, Grace’s son criticised the driver for staying in his cab and not helping his mum.

About the Author

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Chris Tindall

Chris Tindall started writing for the haulage and logistics industry in 2002 and has covered a broad range of significant issues, including GPS jamming by criminals, platooning and Brexit.

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