Driver Who Killed Teen Girl on Wrong Side of Road Avoids Jail
Fatal Crash on A388 Near Stoke Climsland
A 45-year-old man from Plymouth, Russell Hitchcock, has been spared jail despite causing a fatal crash that killed 17-year-old Alisha Osman and seriously injured her best friend.
On 27 April 2023, Hitchcock’s Ford Transit flatbed van suddenly veered over double white lines into oncoming traffic on the A388 at Stoke Climsland. His van smashed head-on into Alisha’s Vauxhall Corsa.
- Alisha, who had passed her driving test just 10 days earlier, was dropping off her 16-year-old friend Imogen Holt after college before heading to the supermarket.
- The impact killed Alisha instantly and left Imogen with life-changing injuries.
Driver Claims Drowsiness But No Other Distractions
Hitchcock admitted causing death and serious injury by careless driving but told police he had no memory of crossing lanes. He said he felt “a bit drowsy” earlier but had opened a window and felt fine by the time of the crash.
Forensics ruled out speeding, mobile phone use, and intoxication. Hitchcock was on antihistamines for hay fever, but experts said this probably did not impair his driving.
A witness said Hitchcock’s van made a “sudden and unexpected movement,” forcing them to brake before hearing the crash.
Imogen spent three days in intensive care with multiple fractures, severe internal injuries, and a scalp haematoma. She continues to fight physical and psychological trauma, including PTSD and nightmares.
Heartbroken Family Pays Tribute to Alisha
Alisha’s mother, Angela Osman, described her daughter as passionate about animals and farming, with dreams of an agricultural career.
“She was never afraid of hard work and would stay up late to help with lambing. She had a bright future ahead of her,” Ms Osman said.
“My world collapsed when I lost my daughter. Life now feels hollow.”
Judge Hands Suspended Sentence, Community Order
Judge Simon Carr recognised Hitchcock had no history of dangerous driving and was sober at the time. He called the crash a “momentary but catastrophic loss of control.”
Hitchcock was sentenced to 21 months in prison, suspended for two years, along with 240 hours of unpaid work and a two-year driving ban.
His lawyer said Hitchcock deeply regrets the crash and pleaded guilty at the earliest chance.
The sentence has sparked fierce debate online, with many saying it does not match the devastation caused to Alisha’s family.
This heartbreaking case has reignited calls for tougher penalties on careless driving that ends lives.
