South Shields Drunk Driver Jailed For Killing A Pensioner While Speeding

5 March 2016, 06:00 | Updated: 30 March 2016, 13:50

A dangerous driver has been jailed after he crashed into another car and killed the elderly driver in South Tyneside.

32 year old Sean Flynn,  is facing more than five years behind bars after his actions led to the death of 84-year-old Norma Hall.

He had been driving his heavily modified Fiat Punto in South Tyneside when he collided with Mrs Hall's Suzuki Alto on Jarrow Road.

Police attended and found Flynn was more than twice the legal drink drive limit and also had drugs in his system. Sean Flynn

They also found he had been driving at more than 60mph through the 40mph zone prior to the incident on the afternoon of November 4, 2014.

Now Flynn, of Brass Thill Way, South Shields, has been jailed for five years and three months and handed a five year driving ban upon his release from prison.

Sergeant Steve Minnikin, of Northumbria Police's Motor Patrols department, said:
"This sentence is the culmination of a lengthy and prolonged investigation into a collision that claimed an innocent life.

"We are glad to see this offender brought to justice and hope his punishment will serve as a reminder to motorists of the tragic consequences of drink and drug driving.

"Our deepest condolences go to Norma's family and we hope that the sentence handed down today gives them some comfort during what must have been a incredibly difficult time."

Northumbria Police's Op Dragoon is aimed at targetting dangerous drivers and is particularly focused on those who get behind the wheel while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

During their recent Christmas Drink and Drug Drive Campaign the force made 148 arrests and Motor Patrols Chief Inspector John Heckels has said the force will continue to put offenders before the courts.

He said:
"The vast majority of rmotorists abide by the law but this incident shows the devastating impact one individual can have when they can flout the rules of the road.

"This tragedy was totally avoidable and quite simply should never have happened. We are pleased with the sentence today but it will not bring Norma back to her family.

"Op Dragoon will continue to patrol our region's roads to keep you safe and they will continue to take action against anyone who puts the lives of others at risk."

If you suspect a person of driving while under the influence of drink or drugs then contact the Op Dragoon team on 101 or call 999 in an emergency.