A man has today (26 March) been sentenced following an investigation into a fatal collision which resulted in the death of a woman.
Simon Nicholson, 21, of Meadley Place, Cleator Moor pleaded guilty for causing death by careless driving whilst over the prescribed limit and two counts of causing serious injury by careless driving.
The court heard that police were called to the report of a collision on Friday 22 December 2023 on A66 near Marron Bridge.
The collision involved Nicholson’s vehicle a Volkswagen Golf and a Suzuki Jimny.
A forensic collision investigation was carried out which found Nicholson was travelling westbound on A66 towards Workington when it crossed onto the eastbound carriageway and collided with the Suzuki.
Maureen Henley, 72, a passenger in the Suzuki died in hospital later that day as a result of her injuries.
The driver of the Suzuki was airlifted to hospital with serious injuries.
There were three passengers in Nicholson's vehicle who suffered serious and minor injuries.
Nicholson carried out a drugs wipe and breath test at the scene, which was negative, a further blood test was carried out with his consent which showed he was over the prescribed limit for Cocaine.
Nicholson was sentenced to two years suspended for two years.
Detective Constable Caroline Middleton from the Serious Collision Investigation Unit said, “This collision sadly resulted in the loss of life.
“There is no excuse for drug-driving and getting behind the wheel whilst unfit and this case highlights the tragic impacts it can have.
“Nicholson told officers at the scene he does not take drugs, however his consented blood test confirmed he was over the prescribed limit.
“In Interviews he also claimed the vehicle came onto his side of the road however physical evidence and witnesses found this was not true.”