A driver who inhaled nitrous oxide before and after killing a cyclist has been jailed for 11 and a half years. Cain Byrne, 20, was driving without a licence when he jumped a red light and struck 81-year-old Graham Slinn on a pedestrian crossing in South Yorkshire.
Sheffield Crown Court heard Byrne was travelling at up to 80mph in a 50mph zone and made no attempt to stop. He admitted causing death by dangerous driving and other offences. The court was shown footage of him inhaling nitrous oxide from a balloon while driving, both before and after the collision.
Mr Slinn, a retired builder and keen cyclist, was weeks away from his 60th wedding anniversary. His family said his death was '100% avoidable' and that he had taken every precaution, dismounting his bike and waiting for the green pedestrian light before crossing.
Judge Richardson KC described Byrne's driving as 'truly appalling' and said he was a dangerous offender. Byrne, who has 27 previous convictions including for dangerous driving, was sentenced to detention in a young offender institution with an extended licence period.
Byrne's defence said he drove off because he thought he had only hit another vehicle's wing mirror. The judge noted Byrne had a 'dreadful upbringing' but emphasised the need to protect the public from his criminal behaviour.
