Drunk Van Driver Jailed for Killing Pensioner on Forest Town Pavement
Tragedy on Newlands Road
Susan Wagstaff, 65, was tragically killed after being hit by a van that mounted the pavement in Forest Town, Mansfield. The horror happened around 10pm on Sunday, 26 September 2021. Susan was walking home when Martin Illic, 38, lost control of his Citroen Berlingo and struck her.
Driver Caught Dead to Rights
Illic fled the scene, crashing into parked cars nearby before ditching his damaged van close to home. Police found him asleep in bed less than an hour later – three times over the legal drink-drive limit. Despite initially denying any involvement or memory of the crash, he later admitted causing death by dangerous driving.
Six Years Inside and Eight-Year Ban
On Friday 25 November 2022, Illic was sentenced at Nottingham Crown Court to six years in prison. He was also slapped with an eight-year driving ban. Detective Constable Emma Temple of Nottinghamshire Police 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 shown respect for the law and other road users.”
She issued a stark warning to all drivers, especially during the festive season: “Don’t get behind the wheel if you’ve been drinking.”
Family Mourns a Beloved Matriarch
Susan’s family released a heartbroken statement:
“Susan Wagstaff, our caring, kind mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister and daughter, was taken from us far too early. Her absence will be deeply felt forever. We hope this sentence brings some justice she deserves.”
This tragic case serves as a grim reminder of the deadly risks of drink-driving and the irreversible damage it causes to families and communities.
