Driver's First Words After Fatal Crash Revealed in Court Footage
Footage released by Avon and Somerset Police has revealed the chilling first account given by a driver after a collision that killed a pedestrian heading to a Take That concert. Fiona Hodge, 69, was found guilty by a jury on Monday of causing death by careless driving.
Tragic Incident on Brunel Way
The court was played video of Hodge being questioned by officers following the crash on June 9, 2024. Hodge, from St Werburghs in Bristol, told police she had been involved in "a very nasty accident" but "did not know why she lost her concentration." She was driving along the A370 Brunel Way with friends, returning from a walk in the Mendips hills south of the city.
At around 5.30pm, Hodge mounted the pavement in her red Citroen and hit Donna Crossman, 53, who was walking with friends towards Ashton Gate stadium to attend the concert. The impact knocked Ms Crossman off the bridge, and she died of her injuries in hospital the following day.
Driver's Account of the Crash
In the footage, Hodge describes the moments leading up to the collision. She states the road "was not busy" and that she was driving "within the speed limit," but then admits she lost her concentration. The pensioner says: "I was chatting to my friends and I mounted the pavement and hit a person — it was very quick. I didn't really see the person. She seemed to have gone over the side of bridge on the side of the road. I can't account for what happened."
Victim Remembered as Talented Coach
Donna Crossman, from Bridgend in south Wales, was a dedicated netball coach described by police as a much-loved daughter, wife, and friend. Her family has endured significant pain over the past 18 months, showing great strength and dignity throughout the investigation and trial.
Witness Evidence and Trial Details
Several witnesses gave evidence during the trial, including friends of Hodge and two independent witnesses who reported seeing a red car 'swerving between lanes in front of them' before the crash. The defence argued that Hodge had suffered an epileptic seizure at the time, but the jury rejected this, concluding her lack of care and attention caused Ms Crossman's death.
Designated Investigating Officer Noelie Poupard from Avon and Somerset Police's Serious Collision Investigation Team commented: "This was an incredibly tragic incident. My hope is that this result gives the family some closure." Hodge will be sentenced at Bristol Crown Court at a later date.
