Bus Driver Jailed for Fatal Crash That Killed Young Woman
A Preston bus driver has been locked up for almost five years after causing a fatal collision that claimed the life of a 27-year-old woman.
Fatal Crash on A19
Jonathan Eaves, 25, was sentenced to four years and eight months at York Crown Court today. The tragic crash happened on the morning of 26 January 2021 on the A19 near Easingwold, North Yorkshire.
Eaves was driving a Volvo bus northbound without passengers, travelling alongside a cyclist. At the same time, an Audi car, driven by 27-year-old Saskia Bets, was approaching southbound.
As the bus neared the cyclist, Eaves swerved sharply right, clipping the end of the cyclist’s handlebar. His bus then crossed the centre white lines straight into Saskia’s path, smashing into the driver’s side door.
Saskia Dies After Collision
Saskia suffered severe injuries and died at the hospital later that day. The cyclist was highly visible, wearing a hi-vis jacket and reflective gear, with a rear flashing light on his bike. Investigators found the cyclist would have been visible to Eaves for over 30 seconds before the crash.
Guilty Plea and Harsh Sentence
Eaves pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving in December 2023. Along with his jail term, he was banned from driving for six years and four months.
“Eaves’ dangerous driving resulted in a tragic death, and it is right that he now has to face the consequence of his actions,” said DCI Jez Bartley from North Yorkshire Police. “No verdict can bring back Saskia or undo the pain caused to her loved ones, but this case underlines the critical need for safe, responsible driving.”
Saskia’s family released a statement, saying: “We respect and accept the judge’s verdict and are pleased Jonathan Eaves will be imprisoned. No sentence could ever match the pain he has caused our family.”
“We thank everyone who responded after the crash. Their efforts could not save Saskia, but it shows the goodness of mankind.”
