Boy, 11, Killed After Scaffolding Board Falls From Van on Sussex Road
An 11-year-old boy has tragically died after scaffolding boards fell off a van and smashed into his car. The heartbreaking crash on the B2095 Top Road, Hooe, East Sussex, has left a family devastated.
Van Driver Fails to Secure Load – Fatal Consequences
Russell Le Beau, 34, a scaffolder from eastbourne/" title="Eastbourne" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Eastbourne, was driving his Ford Transit flatbed van when one of the scaffolding boards became dangerously unsecured. The board swung out at an angle into the opposite lane, catching Lee Dennis’s Volkswagen Passat completely off guard.
- Lee was driving with his 11-year-old son Harry in the front passenger seat.
- The board smashed through the windscreen, seriously injuring Harry.
- Harry was airlifted to King’s College Hospital in London but sadly died days later.
Le Beau was promptly arrested and charged with causing death by dangerous driving. On November 3, Lewes Crown Court sentenced him to four years in prison and banned him from driving for seven years.
Unsafe Loading Blamed for Tragedy
Investigators revealed the scaffolding boards were only clamped at one end with a metal pole, with no straps, nets, or tarpaulin securing them. No safety equipment was found inside the van at all.
The Health and Safety Executive described the load security as “grossly inadequate.” The court heard Le Beau could see the protruding board in his wing mirror but drove on anyway.
Her Honour Judge Christine Laing KC said: “You were driving whilst that vehicle was dangerous. I have no doubt you were prepared to take a risk whatever the rush was that day… You took a most gross risk by driving with an insecure load.”
Family Pay Tribute to ‘Beautiful’ Harry
Harry’s mother, Maria, spoke movingly after the sentencing:
“Harry was our beautiful son with the biggest of smiles and the biggest of hearts. His kind, caring and fun nature touched so many. He was always helping his friends believe in themselves. His infectious giggle and smile live on in us all.”
The family said Harry was a true sportsman and a star for hastings/" title="Hastings" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Hastings Athletic Football Club, known for his skill and unforgettable goal celebrations. They added, “Harry packed a lifetime of happiness and adventure into just 11 years. He never wasted a moment.”
Police: ‘Secure Your Loads or Face Devastating Consequences’
Detective Sergeant Rob Baldwin of Sussex Police said:
“Had Le Beau secured the boards with ratchet straps, this tragic loss would not have happened. Drivers must ensure their vehicles and loads are safe and comply with road laws.”
This sobering case serves as a stark reminder about the dangers of unsafe load practices on our roads.
