A 96-year-old woman has pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving after her vehicle mounted a pavement and struck two pedestrians, resulting in the tragic death of one.
June Mills, of Ainsdale, appeared in Liverpool Crown Court on Tuesday morning, where she entered her plea. Sitting in a wheelchair in the public gallery, Mills admitted responsibility for the death of 76-year-old Brenda Joyce on August 2, 2023, following a collision on Elbow Lane in Formby.
The court heard that Mills lost control of her Vauxhall Corsa when she “applied too much accelerator,” causing the car to veer onto the pavement and hit the two pedestrians. Brenda Joyce sustained a serious head injury and was pronounced dead at the scene. Another pedestrian, an 80-year-old woman, suffered minor injuries.
Tom Gent, defending, explained that Mills had previously been of good character but that her mobility had significantly worsened since the incident. He noted that she would be unlikely to be fit for any unpaid work due to her health.
The accelerator pedal fell beneath her foot, and she panicked and failed to react,” Gent told the court. “She accepts by her plea that her driving fell far below the expected standard.”
The incident has left a profound impact on the local community. Following the crash, Merseyside Police confirmed that emergency services were called to the scene, where they found Brenda Joyce with fatal injuries. The tragic event has prompted ongoing discussions about the suitability of elderly drivers on the road.
Recorder of Liverpool Andrew Menary KC has adjourned the sentencing until September 30. Mills will remain out of custody until her next court appearance, but the gravity of the situation has prompted questions about the legal implications for elderly drivers in similar situations.
The family of Brenda Joyce has expressed their devastation at the loss of their loved one. They have called for a review of road safety policies, particularly concerning older drivers.
