Young Driver Banned After Fatal New Forest Crash
A teenager has been banned from the roads after causing a heartbreaking death in the New Forest. Frankie Katciotis, 18, from Hythe, admitted careless driving that led to the death of cyclist Steven Jones.
Careless Crash on Hidden Hilltop Road
At Southampton Crown Court, prosecutors revealed how Katciotis, behind the wheel of a Seat Ibiza, smashed into 61-year-old Mr Jones on Hilltop, between Fawley and Beaulieu. The cyclist, from Blackfield, was hit from behind on August 12 when Katciotis failed to spot him in time.
Speed and Sunlight Blamed for Fatal Collision
Investigators discovered Katciotis was speeding well over the 40mph limit. The low, blinding sun made his reckless driving even worse. Today, the court sentenced him to six months in prison, suspended for two years, handed down 240 hours of unpaid work, and handed a two-year driving ban.
Police Slam “Irresponsible” Driving
PC Kelly Hargreaves from the Joint Serious Collision Investigation Unit said:
“This tragedy could have been avoided if Katciotis had adjusted his driving for the road conditions. Not only was he speeding, but he was doing so with the sun low in the sky, which severely affected his visibility.
Drivers must slow down to suit conditions, but Katciotis ignored that responsibility. Now, a family is left grieving a pointless loss. Our thoughts are with Mr Jones’ loved ones.”
