Driver who killed man after crashing his BMW at 80mph into the back of car stationary at traffic lights jailed

A DRIVER who killed a man after crashing his BMW at 80mph has been jailed.

David Devoy, 54, smashed into the back of 50-year-old Neil Errington's car while he was stopped at traffic lights in Carlisle, Cumbria.

The court heard yesterday how Devoy had shown signs of having suffered a medical episode during a different collision on April 5 2022, in the same town - days before the fatal crash on May 2 2022.

As a result, he surrendered his licence to the officer on the scene and it was officially revoked by the DVLA.

However, he fraudulently applied for a new one before collecting a BMW.

Later that same day he was spotted driving erratically before colliding with the rear of a Fiat Punto several times and speeding off.

Witnesses then saw Devoy approach Mr Errington's Mercedes car, at times on the wrong side of the road, and speeding well over the limit.

He collided with the back of the vehicle while it was stationary in Stanwix Bank.

Mr Errington suffered serious injuries and died in hospital 10 days later on May 12 2022.

The same officer who had applied to the DVLA to have Devoy's licence revoked attended the scene and recognised the defendant immediately.

Devoy told police that he believed he had suffered a medical episode at the wheel, having suffered from epilepsy for many years.

He said that he had taken his epilepsy medication on the morning of the crash.

He also stated in his police interview that he believed that his driving licence had been returned to him prior to the fatal collision.

A forensic collision investigation report concluded that Devoy’s vehicle was travelling at between 76mph and 81 mph at the point of impact with the Mercedes.

Devoy admitted causing death by dangerous driving, and two counts of fraud by false representation.

He was sentenced to six years and eight months in prison and disqualified from driving for 13 years and four months.

Detective Constable Claire Whatman of Cumbria Police’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit said: “David Devoy’s decision to go out and buy a new car, so soon after his previous collision and after having had his licence revoked by the DVLA, was reckless and selfish.

“Devoy’s driving on 2 May 2022 was dangerously out of control, and ultimately cost Neil Errington his life.

“Had Devoy taken his responsibilities as a driver more seriously after his previous medical episode at the wheel, and abided by the decision of the DVLA to revoke his license, Neil would still be with us today.

“Any driver who suffers from a medical condition or disability that could affect their driving must abide by doctor’s advice, and they must inform the DVLA. Guidance can be found here - //www.gov.uk/driving-medical-conditions

“I would like to thank all those who provided information to assist the investigation, and to extend my deepest condolences on behalf of Cumbria Constabulary to Neil’s loved ones.”