Drunk Driver Jailed for Killing Nurse and Injuring Pedestrian in Bolton
Craig Mossop, from Hartington Road, was slammed with a nine-year prison sentence at Bolton Crown Court on Monday 16 November 2020. He admitted to five serious driving offences, including death by dangerous driving.
Reckless Seven-Mile Rampage Ends in Tragedy
On the afternoon of Sunday 23 August 2020, Mossop set off on a seven-mile journey in his blue Land Rover TD4, driving from his partner’s house to his own home. At the time, he was unlicensed, uninsured, and under the influence of alcohol.
CCTV footage revealed Mossop speeding and weaving dangerously as he approached Chorley Street. He narrowly missed colliding with railings before mounting the kerb after failing to negotiate a bend from Spa Road.
Hit-and-Run Horror: Nurse Killed, Pedestrian Seriously Injured
- Mossop drove on the pavement for nearly 40 metres at 53mph in a 30mph zone, striking nurse Susan Jackson.
- Despite hitting Mrs Jackson, he carried on, running a red light at a busy junction and hitting a 36-year-old man waiting on a pedestrian island, leaving him seriously injured.
- Passers-by heroically stopped Mossop from fleeing and detained him until police arrived.
Victim’s Family Speaks Out
“Sue was a wife, mother, sister, aunt, friend and a respected lung cancer specialist nurse,” said her husband Graham at the sentencing.
“Craig Mossop acted selfishly and irresponsibly, driving drunk and killing Sue. His prison sentence is not enough for what he’s taken from us. We will never forgive him.”
“Though shattered, we will carry on enriched by the love we shared with Sue.”
Police Condemn Dangerous Driving
Detective Constable Emma Kennedy said: “Mrs Jackson’s husband was dealt the unimaginable blow of losing his wife mere yards from where they planned to meet. Mossop’s reckless driving showed no respect for pedestrians or the law.”
“We thank the members of the public who provided first aid and stopped Mossop from escaping. This tragic incident proves drink-driving dangers aren’t just a night-time or festive issue — the risks are real anytime.”
“Drivers must think twice before drinking and driving. The devastating impact on victims, families, and communities is never worth the risk.”
