Fatal Crash: Demi-Elise Michaud Jailed for Deadly Driving Blunder
Demi-Elise Michaud from Blawith, Ulverston, was slammed with a 14-month prison sentence at Preston Crown Court on 5 April. She admitted causing a fatal crash that killed her passenger back in November 2019. Michaud was also handed a two-year driving ban and must pass an extended retest before getting her licence back.
Catastrophic Collision on A590
The nightmare unfolded in the early hours of 27 November 2019. Michaud drove a grey Kia Ceed out of Centre Parcs, heading south on the M6 with passenger Matthew Brown in the front seat. As she neared Backbarrow and took a sharp right-hand bend, the car’s nearside smashed violently into the slate stone bridge parapet.
The impact was so brutal it snapped Matthew Brown’s seatbelt and flung him 15 to 20 metres from the wreck. Emergency crews described the scene as ‘total devastation’ – the Kia was left unrecognisable. Tragically, Brown’s injuries proved fatal.
Driver Uninjured but Distracted
Michaud escaped without injury but admitted to losing concentration before the crash. In her police interview, she refused to answer questions but later pleaded guilty in court.
Sergeant Lee Hill, Cumbria Police:
“This was a tragic case which resulted in a young man – who would now be the father to a two-year-old child – losing his life. Michaud was driving dangerously at an inappropriate speed. The collision was avoidable and did not involve any other vehicles. It is crucial drivers keep full attention on the road at all times.”
Warning to All Drivers
The horrific incident is a stark reminder of the deadly consequences of careless driving. Michaud’s case proves how a momentary lapse behind the wheel can cost lives.
