Driver Jailed for Deadly Hit and Run of 96-Year-Old
Michael Irons, 26, from Bradwell, has been slammed with a 10-and-a-half-year prison sentence for causing the death of 96-year-old Ivy Warnes. The Norwich Crown Court handed down the harsh penalty after Irons pleaded guilty to manslaughter, dangerous driving, driving while intoxicated, and causing death in an uninsured vehicle.
Deliberate Crash and Desperate Escape
On March 8, Irons was behind the wheel of a silver VW Golf with his partner and young child. The chaos started around 3:50pm on Alexandra Road after a minor scuffle with occupants of an Audi Q7. After stopping, Irons was confronted about his driving. He then reversed into another car, scraped the Audi, and drove off.
He later returned to Crown Road, where he deliberately rammed the parked Audi. Tragically, Ivy Warnes was struck while crossing the road with her daughter’s help. The 96-year-old suffered fatal injuries and died in hospital.
Irons tried to flee but was caught by bystanders. Witnesses reported he hurled racial abuse during his arrest. A breath test revealed Irons’ blood alcohol level was well over the limit – 55 micrograms versus the legal 35.
Victim’s Family Devastated
“Mum’s tragic death will haunt us for the rest of our lives,” said Jill Warnes, Ivy’s daughter. “We ask for privacy during this heartbreaking time.”
Police Brand Irons’ Driving ‘Appalling’
Detective Inspector McCormack said: “Irons’ reckless, uninsured driving and deliberate attack used his car as a weapon, killing a beloved mother. Our thoughts are with Ivy’s family.”
Driving Ban and Licence Roadblocks
- Michael Irons banned from driving for 10 years
- Must pass extended driving test before licence return
- Four-year licence extension after sentence
This deadly road rampage has left a family shattered and serves as a chilling reminder of the dangers of drunk and aggressive driving.
