Van Driver Jailed for Checking Emails Moments Before Killing Pensioner
Wakefield Tragedy: Elderly Man Fatally Hit
Qabir Hussain, 54, from Wakefield, was caught browsing emails seconds before crashing into 85-year-old David Brooke on 17 January 2022. The pensioner was crossing Barnsley Road when Hussain, distracted by his phone, ploughed into him — never even seeing the man in front of him.
Five Years Behind Bars for Deadly Driving
Forensic experts confirmed Hussain’s phone was unlocked and in use during the deadly drive. After hitting David, Hussain dialled 999 on the same device. Last month, Leeds Crown Court convicted him of causing death by dangerous driving. Today, he was slapped with a five-year prison sentence and a driving ban.
Grieving Family’s Heartbreaking Plea
“My grandad should still be here,” said David’s granddaughter. “The day you took him away from me and my family will live with me forever.”
“You took the kindest, funniest, most loving man, everyone loved him. He enjoyed life and his family. Most of all his wife, my grandma; you have broken her.
“I miss his voice and hearing his stories, his smile and the way he said he loved me. All I have now are memories of my grandad. We love and miss him every day.”
Police Issue Stark Warning on Phone Use at the Wheel
DS Nina Roper of the Major Collision Enquiry Team said: “This case shows the tragic fallout from just a moment’s distraction behind the wheel. Using a phone while driving is one of the ‘Fatal Five’ – the leading causes of serious crashes.
No email, message or call is worth a life. If you need your phone, pull over safely. We’re pushing hard to cut deaths on our roads with our Vision Zero campaign. If you’re tempted to reach for your phone, remember David and his grieving family.”
