Lorry driver jailed for eight years after A1 death crash
Three people were killed in Bowburn in July 2021
Last updated 14th Jan 2022
A lorry driver has been jailed for 8 years and 10 months for causing the deaths of three people in a horror crash in County Durham.
Lorry driver Ion Nicu Onut has also been disqualified from driving for 14 years.
Six vehicles were involved in the collision near Bowburn on 15th July 2021
59 year old Elaine Sullivan and 57 year old David Daglish from Seaham were killed.
51 year old Paul Mullen from Washington was also killed.
Lorry driver Ion Nicu Onut, of Galashiels, Scotland, admitted three counts of causing death by dangerous driving and appeared at Durham Crown Court today.
The 41 year old will spend 8 years and 10 months in jail.
The collision involved four cars and two lorries - one of which was being driven by Mr Onut.
Following the crash on the northbound carriageway near junction 61, several people were injured and one of the lorries caught fire.
"This case serves as a dreadful warning of what can happen when drivers use a mobile phone or device whilst behind the wheel of a vehicle"
Sergeant Catherine Iley, from Durham Constabulary, said: “This was a truly harrowing incident for everyone involved and our thoughts remain with the family and friends of Elaine, David, and Paul.
“They have shown great dignity throughout the course of this investigation and have assisted wherever they can, all while trying to come to terms with the loss of their loved ones in such devastating circumstances.
“It was incredibly distressing and upsetting for those who witnessed the collision, and for the emergency responders, including police officers, firefighters and paramedics, who attended the scene. The horror of what they witnessed that day will no doubt remain with them for many years to come.
“Our sincere thanks must go to everyone who helped at the scene. This also includes members of the public, Highways England, and soldiers from the 4th Regiment Royal Artillery based in North Yorkshire who assisted at the scene after being caught up in the resulting traffic jam.
“Mr Onut has admitted his guilt and pleaded guilty at the first available opportunity and while he has shown remorse for his actions, no amount of remorse will bring Elaine, David, and Paul back.
“This case serves as a dreadful warning of what can happen when drivers use a mobile phone or device whilst behind the wheel of a vehicle – irrespective of the purpose of that use, they are a distraction and as shown in this case, that distraction could have devastating and wide reaching consequences. Simply put, don’t use one.”
"Their premature departure has left behind an irreparable hole in both our families and the local community"
Following the crash last year loved ones of those who died paid tribute:
Paul Mullen's family said in a statement: “Our hearts are broken. Life will never be the same again. He will be sadly missed by all who knew him.”
In a joint statement, the families of Elaine Sullivan and David Daglish said: “Our world has been shattered into a million pieces. Elaine and Dave were incredibly kind-hearted, loving and supportive parents, grandparents, family members and friends.
"Elaine and Dave were incredibly kind-hearted, loving and supportive parents, grandparents, family members and friends.
"Their premature departure has left behind an irreparable hole in both our families and the local community; their kind and devoted selves will never be forgotten.”
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