A video has captured the initial statements of a negligent driver following a fatal accident involving a pedestrian on the way to a Take That concert. Fiona Hodge, 69, admitted to causing a serious accident but claimed she was unsure why she lost focus. The incident occurred on the A370 Brunel Way in Bristol, where Hodge struck Donna Crossman, 53, who was walking to the concert venue with friends. Tragically, Crossman succumbed to her injuries the next day in the hospital.
Following a trial, Hodge was found guilty by a jury of causing death due to careless driving and will face sentencing at Bristol Crown Court. The court viewed footage of Hodge being questioned by officers after the June 9, 2024 crash. Hodge, a resident of St Werburghs, Bristol, stated that the road was not congested, and she was driving within the speed limit before admitting to losing focus, leading to the “very nasty accident.”
Hodge explained to authorities that she accidentally mounted the pavement while conversing with her friends, resulting in the collision with Crossman, whom she did not see clearly. Witnesses, including friends of the accused and independent observers in another vehicle, testified during the trial, citing erratic driving behavior by Hodge prior to the accident.
Designated Investigating Officer Noelie Poupard from Avon and Somerset Police’s Serious Collision Investigation Team described the incident as a tragic event that claimed the life of a beloved individual who was simply out to enjoy an evening with friends. Despite the defense’s claim of an epileptic seizure causing the collision, the jury attributed Mrs. Crossman’s death to Hodge’s lack of attention.
Poupard expressed condolences to Crossman’s family, acknowledging their strength and dignity throughout the investigation and trial. The hope is that the court’s decision will provide some closure to the grieving family.