Man avoids jail for causing the death of a man by careless driving in Freckleton
Jonathan Lee, 36, was knocked off his bike and killed in April last year
A man has avoided jail for causing the death of a man in Freckleton by careless driving.
Jonathan Lee, 36, from St Annes, was knocked off his bike and killed on Preston New Road in April last year
Elliot Brown, 27, of School Lane, Freckleton, pleaded guilty to causing death by careless driving.
Around 5.30pm on April 26, 2017, Mr Lee was cycling on Preston New Road (A584) when a Vauxhall Astra van collided with him.
He suffered a number of serious injuries and was later taken to Royal Preston Hospital for treatment but sadly pronounced dead.
Following investigation, Brown, the driver of the Vauxhall, was summoned to appear at court on suspicion of causing death by careless driving.
After a guilty plea last month, the 27-year-old was sentenced on Friday (June 29) to an 18 month community order, 200 hours unpaid work and a tagged curfew for three months. He has also been disqualified from driving for two years.
Sgt Steve Hardman, of Lancashire Police, said: “This was a tragic incident and my thoughts remain with Mr Lee and his family at this time.
“It is clear Brown’s driving was careless with his actions leading to Mr Lee’s death.
“This was a challenging investigation and I would like to thank my colleagues for their support and efforts pursuing the case.”
In a statement, Mr Lee’s family said: “We would like to express our appreciation for all the help and support we have received during the past 14 months following the tragic loss of Jonathan.
“Our thanks go to the air ambulance crew, the emergency services, witnesses and especially to the police who have painstakingly investigated this case and the Crown Prosecution Service for taking it forward to this week’s conclusion.
“Our families and friends have been a source of great comfort and we thank them so much together with staff at our school and nursery who have given such loving support.
“Throughout the 14 months, we have received much helpful and patient assistance from our police family liaison officer Jon Ardron and others in the team and this is truly appreciated.
“Nothing will ever bring Jonathan back – he was one in a million and he will be forever in our hearts and so sadly missed. There are simply no words to describe our grief and anguish - we can only hope that all road users will become more mindful and aware. We must all do what we can to avoid innocent lives being needlessly lost.”