Drunk Driver Jailed for Fatal Crash That Killed 71-Year-Old
Shaun Mulligan, 48, from Eastbourne, has been slammed with a five-year prison sentence after a deadly crash on the A281 near Henfield. Mulligan lost control of his Renault Master scaffolding van, smashing into a Suzuki Jimny driven by 71-year-old Jennifer Allen, who died instantly at the scene.
Nearly Double Legal Drink Limit & Cocaine Metabolite Found
Witnesses say they smelled booze on Mulligan as he sat trapped in the wreckage. A blood test, taken over an hour later, revealed Mulligan’s blood alcohol was 159mg per litre—almost double the legal UK limit of 80mg. He also tested positive for benzoylecgonine, a cocaine metabolite, at levels just above the legal threshold.
Mulligan later admitted to downing vodka before getting behind the wheel. Authorities found empty vodka bottles inside his van.
Guilty Plea and Driving Ban Hit Mulligan Hard
In court on October 25, Mulligan pleaded guilty to causing death by careless driving while over drink and drug limits. Besides prison time, he was handed a 7½-year driving ban.
Jennifer Allen’s family said, “It’s extremely difficult to convey the loss and turmoil caused when Jenny’s life was ended by this selfish and reckless behavior.”
Detective Sergeant Ian Foxton added, “This case tragically demonstrates the devastating consequences of drink and drug driving. Mulligan’s actions posed a serious risk to all road users.”
