Deadly Hit-and-Run: Driver Jailed for Killing Pensioner on Zebra Crossing
Sharon Abraham, 27, was slammed with six years behind bars for a fatal hit-and-run on Upperton Road, Eastbourne. Just hours after passing his UK driving test—despite holding a foreign license for nine years—Abraham’s reckless speeding led to tragedy.
Speeding Lexus Hits 75-Year-Old at Zebra Crossing
The crash happened on a wet, dark evening at around 7:45 PM on July 26 last year. Andrew Forrest, 75, was crossing safely on a zebra crossing when Abraham, driving a Lexus at 45-52mph in a 30mph zone, failed to stop. Witnesses said another car had already halted to let Mr Forrest pass.
Driver Flees Scene, Tries to Cover Up Damage
Instead of helping, Abraham sped off, hiding his damaged car behind his home and even buying a cover to conceal the wreckage the next day. He was caught 16 hours later thanks to CCTV evidence. Police from the Serious Collision Investigation and Roads Policing Units launched a thorough hunt.
Guilty Plea and Shocking Phone Searches Reveal Guilt
At Lewes Crown Court on April 25, Abraham admitted causing death by dangerous driving but initially denied speeding or fault. His phone told a different story, showing searches like “hit and run collision UK law” before he tried deleting his history.
Judge Christine Laing KC branded Abraham’s actions as “gross negligence.” She said, “You were driving at a speed highly inappropriate for the road and weather conditions. The case is made worse by your brief stop before driving off. You must have known the injuries were terrible but instead you thought only of yourself and your car.”
Abraham was banned from driving for eight years and must pass an extended re-test before returning to the roads. His sentence was reduced from nine years due to an early guilty plea.
Warning to Drivers: Stick to Speed Limits, Stay Alert
This grim case is a stark reminder: speed limits exist for a reason, especially near pedestrian crossings and in bad weather. Reckless driving isn’t just dangerous, it’s deadly.
