Drunk Driver Jailed for Killing Grandmother on Mansfield Pavement
Susan Wagstaff, 65, was tragically killed after being hit by a van that mounted the pavement in Forest Town, Mansfield. The driver, Martin Illic, 38, was found drunk asleep in bed shortly after the crash.
Drink-Driving Denial Fails After Fatal Smash
Illic initially denied drink-driving and claimed he had no idea a collision happened. But police pieced together the evidence and he was sentenced to six years behind bars at Nottingham Crown Court on Friday, 25 November 2022.
“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
The Deadly Crash and Aftermath
- The tragedy happened around 10pm on Sunday, 26 September 2021, while Susan was walking home on Newlands Road.
- Illic’s Citroen Berlingo van mounted the pavement and struck her.
- Emergency services arrived quickly but Susan was pronounced dead at the scene.
- Illic fled, crashing into parked cars before abandoning his damaged van near his home.
- Police found him asleep in bed at 11.50pm, three times over the legal drink-drive limit.
Illic admitted to drinking at a nearby pub but claimed he didn’t feel drunk. He denied leaving the road or recalling the collision, but later pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving on 1 November.
Police Warn Drivers as Festive Season Approaches
Detective Constable Emma Temple from Nottinghamshire Police’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit said:
“The devastating impact of Illic’s drink-driving will be felt by Susan’s loved ones for the rest of their lives. This collision could have been avoided if Illic had respected the law and made the responsible choice not to drive after drinking.”
“This is a stark reminder of the dangers of drink-driving, especially as we approach the festive season when celebrations increase. Don’t risk lives by getting behind the wheel under the influence.”
“If you break the law and put lives at risk, you will face the courts.”
Illic was banned from driving for eight years in addition to his jail term.
