A van driver has admitted causing the death of a 65-year-old highways worker who was struck on the M23 in a fatal early-morning collision. Vilius Domarkas, 38, pleaded guilty at Hove Crown Court on Thursday to causing the death of Anthony Howe by dangerous driving. Domarkas admitted driving a Citroen Relay dangerously on the southbound carriageway of the M23 on July 8. Emergency services were called shortly before 1am following reports of a collision involving a van and a highways worker close to Junction 9. Despite the efforts of emergency crews, Mr Howe, 65, from Kent, was pronounced dead at the scene.
Highways worker remembered as ‘much loved’
Mr Howe, who was known to friends and family as “Scotty”, is understood to have been working on the motorway when the fatal collision occurred. He has since been remembered as a “much loved” man by those who knew him. Sussex Police previously confirmed that specialist officers were supporting Mr Howe’s family following what the force described as a “tragic incident”. Members of his family attended Thursday’s hearing at Hove Crown Court, with some present in the courtroom and others joining remotely. A fundraiser established by Mr Howe’s work colleagues to support his family had raised £8,962 towards a £12,000 target at the time of writing.
Driver arrested and charged on day of collision
Domarkas was arrested on July 8 following the fatal collision and was subsequently charged with causing death by dangerous driving. Appearing at Hove Crown Court on Thursday, he pleaded guilty to the offence. Domarkas will return to court on September 28, when he is due to be sentenced.
