A drug driver who struck and killed a 16-year-old cyclist while speeding at more than twice the legal limit has been jailed for eight years and banned from driving for 15 years and six months.
Ryan Elsender, 29, was found to have cocaine and cannabis in his system when he hit Jayden McGuinness on Walker Road, Newcastle, on 27 September 2024. The teenager suffered serious injuries and died two days later in hospital.
Elsender, who initially fled the scene, returned shortly afterward and contacted police.
Court Hears of ‘Reckless’ Driving
An investigation by Northumbria Police’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit (SCIU) found that Elsender had been driving at speeds in excess of 70mph in a 30mph zone.
A blood analysis revealed he was over the legal drug-driving limit for cannabis and also had a quantity of cocaine in his system at the time of the crash.
Elsender pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving and a further charge of dangerous driving at Newcastle Crown Court, where he was sentenced on Friday.
‘Total Disregard for Life’ – Family’s Pain
In a victim impact statement, Jayden’s grandfather, Brian White, spoke of the family’s grief:
“Jayden was just lush. He had a heart of gold and was always thinking of how to be a loving and fun brother and cousin.
“I have to pass the place where this happened every day, and it is a constant reminder of how we lost Jayden. The total disregard for Jayden’s life is unforgivable and should never have happened.”
Police Warning to Dangerous Drivers
Sergeant John Sanderson of Northumbria Police condemned Elsender’s actions, saying:
“Jayden’s family has shown incredible strength in the past five months. We hope they can take some closure knowing that the person responsible has been brought to justice.
“Ryan Elsender’s actions were incredibly reckless and resulted in a teenager tragically losing his life.
“If you use drugs, drive dangerously, and your actions result in someone’s death, expect to be prosecuted and go to prison.”
The judge also imposed a 15-year and six-month driving ban, meaning Elsender will not be allowed back on the roads for over two decades.
