Drunk Driver Jailed for Murdering Grandma on Pavement
Susan Wagstaff, 65, was tragically killed after a van mounted the pavement and struck her in Forest Town, Mansfield. The driver, Martin Illic, 38, was found drunk and asleep in bed when police arrested him shortly after the smash.
Denies Everything but Jailed for Six Years
Illic initially denied drink-driving and claimed no memory of the collision during police interviews. But specialist officers pieced together the full story. On Friday 25 November 2022, he was locked up for six years at Nottingham Crown Court.
“Susan Wagstaff, our caring, kind mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister and daughter was taken away from us far too early. Her absence is and will be missed forever by all the family. Hopefully we get some justice that you deserve.” — Susan’s family
Horrific Crash Details
- The crash happened around 10pm on 26 September 2021.
- Susan was walking home from work along Newlands Road.
- Illic’s Citroen Berlingo swerved onto the pavement and hit her.
- He fled the scene, smashing into parked cars before ditching the van near his home.
- Police found him in bed at 11.50pm, breathalysing him three times over the drink-drive limit.
Illic admitted causing death by dangerous driving on 1 November. He told police he met a woman for drinks at a pub and claimed he felt no effects from the booze.
Police Warning: Don’t Drink and Drive This Christmas
Detective Constable Emma Temple said: “The devastating impact of Illic’s drink-driving will be felt by Susan’s loved ones forever. This tragedy could have been avoided if he had made a responsible choice.”
She added: “This case is a stark warning ahead of the festive season — never drive under the influence of drink or drugs. If you put lives at risk, the courts will catch you.”
Illic was also banned from driving for eight years.
