Callous driver jailed for nearly 10 years after leaving 60-year-old woman to die in Rochdale hit-and-run
Hit-and-run horror on Edenfield Road
John Brazil, 28, from Rochdale, has been jailed for 9 years and 9 months after causing the death of 60-year-old Anne Jones in a shocking hit-and-run. The tragic crash happened on 19 December 2021 as Anne crossed Edenfield Road with friends and family. Instead of stopping, Brazil fled the scene, leaving her to die roadside.
Disqualified, uninsured and speeding
The court heard Brazil was driving a Mercedes A180 at speeds up to 60mph in a 30mph zone. Despite being disqualified from driving due to a prior dangerous driving conviction, he was behind the wheel with only a provisional licence and no insurance. His reckless actions devastated Anne’s loved ones.
Investigation led to swift arrest
Brazil tried to hide his car in a nearby car park but was caught after a prompt police probe. He voluntarily handed himself in the next day and was charged with causing death by dangerous driving, driving uninsured and driving while disqualified. Initially denying guilt, he later pleaded guilty with the forensic evidence stacked against him.
Family and police pay tribute
“No sentence can bring back Anne or heal the loss felt by our family,” said Anne’s husband Mark Jones. “Her absence leaves a hole in all our lives.”
Police Sgt Louise Warhurst described Anne as a loving wife and mother who should have been enjoying Christmas with her family. She thanked the family for their courage and praised the officers who worked tirelessly to bring Brazil to justice.
