Driver jailed for killing cyclist in hit-and-run in Chichester
Terry Varndell was using his mobile phone at the wheel to call and text in the moments leading up to the crash
Last updated 7th Aug 2024
A dangerous driver caused a fatal collision with a cyclist because he was distracted by using his mobile phone at the wheel.
Terry Varndell used his phone for texts and calls in the moments before striking cyclist David Breen in Chichester.
He then failed to stop at the scene of the collision on the A286 Main Road at Birdham.
Mr Breen, 26, tragically died at the scene minutes later.
Varndell, 37, was not insured to drive his Vauxhall Zafira.
Investigating officer Detective Sergeant Ian Foxton said: “This case demonstrates the devastating consequences of being distracted behind the wheel."
At Portsmouth Crown Court Varndell, formerly a refuse worker of Middleton Close, Bracklesham Bay, was found guilty by a jury of causing death by dangerous driving.
On Monday, August 5, he was sentenced to six years in prison, was disqualified from driving for eight years with a requirement to complete an extended driving test before he would be allowed to drive again.
The court heard how the incident happened at about 8.10pm on October 26, 2021.
Other motorists had seen Mr Breen cycling with lights on along the straight road, and they all passed him safely.
But phone records showed Varndell had made numerous texts and calls while driving.
It included calls in the moments immediately before the collision.
Mr Breen, originally from County Kerry in Ireland, had been living in Chichester and was cycling home after playing football.
His family described how he was optimistic about moving into a new flat.
In a victim statement his mother Anne Breen, father Anthony, and brothers Shane and Anthony, described how they still feel raw about the incident.
They described hearing the news as the “hardest day of our lives”.
David was “funny, caring, ready with the banter, cheeky, lovable and always on the go” they said.
Det Sgt Foxton said: “Varndell drove dangerously and failed to show adequate awareness of David Breen who was cycling home.
“Sadly, David never made it home that night, and his death has had a lasting impact on his family and loved ones.
“We know that driving while distracted such as by using a mobile phone is one of the ‘fatal five’ behaviours that lead to people being killed on our roads.
“This case shows the pain and heartache that being distracted and driving dangerously can cause.
“We were determined to get justice for David’s family, and are pleased that a dangerous driver has been taken off our roads.
“But our work to warn others about the dangers of using a mobile phone, as well as the other ‘fatal five’ factors continues 24/7, every day of the year.”