Disqualified Biker Jailed Over Fatal Crash That Killed Grandma
A banned motorcyclist has been locked up for causing the death of an 81-year-old grandmother in East Preston.
21-Year-Old Rider Hits Elderly Pedestrian
Kieran Shaw, 21, ignored a driving ban and struck Janet Jacob on Worthing Road on October 25, 2022. The elderly woman was crossing the road when Shaw’s Yamaha Tracer 700 hit her, leaving her critically injured. She later died in hospital.
Shaw had previously been convicted for dangerous driving and was illegally riding despite being disqualified. Eyewitnesses saw his powerful bike collide with Mrs Jacob at around 27-38mph in a 30mph zone. Though Shaw was listening to music via a Bluetooth helmet speaker, he denied being distracted.
Judge Slams Rider’s Recklessness
At Lewes Crown Court, the judge slammed Shaw’s “blatant disregard for the law.” He highlighted that even without the ban, Shaw was riding a bike unsuitable for his age.
“Shaw is an arrogant and lawless individual with an utter disregard for safety and a blatant disregard for the law,” said Mrs Jacob’s family.
The heartbroken family called the crash a “harrowing ordeal” and remembered Mrs Jacob as a loving mother and grandmother.
Sentenced to Nearly Four Years Behind Bars
Shaw, once a roofer from Littlehampton, was sentenced to 3 years and 9 months in prison. He also received an extra 6½ years driving ban.
Sussex Police warned of the dangers of riding while disqualified. A spokesperson said:
“Had Shaw not been riding that day, Mrs Jacob’s family wouldn’t have endured this tragedy. We welcome the custodial sentence imposed by the court.”
This case is a brutal reminder – breaking driving bans and reckless riding can have deadly consequences.
