News / Crime
Driver found guilty of killing Take That fan walking to Ashton Gate
A woman has been found guilty of death by careless driving after ploughing into a concert-goer on her way to Ashton Gate Stadium.
Fiona Hodge, from St Werburgh’s, killed 53-year-old Donna Crossman on June 9 2024 on Brunel Way.
The 69-year-old was returning from a walk in the Mendips with friends when she mounted the pavement, hitting Crossman who was walking to a Take That concert.
Crossman’s two companions narrowly avoided Hodge’s car but she was knocked off the bridge onto the pump track below and died the following day in Southmead Hospital.
A number of witnesses took the stand at trial including Crossman’s friends. One described seeing a red car “swerving between lanes in front of them”.
Hodge pleaded not guilty to death by careless driving, with her defence saying she had suffered an epileptic seizure at the time of the collision.
The jury rejected this, however, and ruled her lack of care and attention is what caused Crossman’s death.
Noelie Poupard from Avon & Somerset Police’s serious collision investigation team, said: “This was an incredibly tragic incident which resulted in the death of a much-loved daughter, wife and friend who was on her way out to enjoy her evening with her friends.
“Mrs Crossman’s family have endured a great deal of pain over the past 18 months and they have shown great strength and dignity throughout the investigation and trial. My hope is this result gives them some closure.”
Main Photo: Avon and Somerset Police
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