Grimsby drink driver jailed for killing a teacher
Thomas Sanigar got behind the wheel two times over the legal limit
Last updated 6th Dec 2024
39-year-old Thomas Michael Sanigar from Great Coates Road, in Grimsby, pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving after killing Alexander Ramsden in February this year.
Sanigar was sentenced to nine years and nine months in prison and received a 16 year and six months driving ban yesterday (Thursday, 5 December) at Grimsby Crown Court.
On the evening of 3 February 2024, Sanigar had been in Beverley where he had consumed alcohol, seven pints of Madri Lager, one pint of Guiness, one bottle of Heineken lager and one round of shots.
After the event, Sanigar and two friends decided to head to Cleethorpes to continue the evening, and Sanigar offered to drive.
Sanigar was driving along Great Coates Road in Grimsby towards Wybers Estate, when he increased his speed and mounted the nearside pavement, hitting Alexander who was walking home after meeting a friend.
The 30 year old teacher sustained fatal injuries and died at the scene.
When emergency services arrived, Sanigar failed a roadside breath test which was two times over the legal limit, and was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving while being over the legal alcohol limit.
Paying tribute to Alex, his older brother said:
“My brother was incredibly intelligent and used that intelligence to help his students achieve more than they thought they were capable of. He had endless respect for other people, able to empathise with almost anyone."
Alex’s mother added:
‘’Since Alex was killed, the family dog, but really Alex’s dog, Phoenix, has been waiting at the window looking for him, pacing the house, awaiting his arrival back home. There are no words to describe the complete and utter devastation. My boy Alex is gone, never to return and that is something I have to live with.”
Chief Inspector William Jenkins, from our Special Operations Unit, said:
"Our thoughts remain with Alexander’s family who without doubt will remain heartbroken and continue to grieve for him. I hope that knowing Sanigar is now behind bars for his reckless actions will bring them some comfort.
"As part of Operation Yuletide, our Roads Policing Unit is working to target those who decide to drink and drive during the festive season. Time and again, we deal with people who think it's okay to drive under the influence of alcohol. If you've been drinking, simply don't get behind the wheel. We want everyone to enjoy Christmas, but people need to be responsible.
"One last drink could make it someone else's last Christmas. If you see someone who may be about to drive under the influence, please let us know—we can help prevent a tragedy before it happens."