A great-grandfather enjoying a quiet afternoon walk was tragically killed when an electric bike rider mounted the pavement to avoid wheelie bins and crashed into him at speed, a court has heard.
The devastating incident occurred on September 14, 2022, in the residential area of Westcliff-on-Sea, Essex, where 72-year-old Peter McCombie was struck by 21-year-old Charlie Alliston riding a modified e-bike.
The Fatal Collision
Basildon Crown Court heard how Alliston was travelling at approximately 18mph when he swerved onto the pavement to pass around wheelie bins that had been placed on the road for collection. In doing so, he collided with Mr McCombie, who was walking in the opposite direction.
The force of the impact was catastrophic. Mr McCombie, a beloved family man with children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, suffered severe head injuries and died in hospital six days later.
A Life Cut Short
Peter McCombie's family paid emotional tribute to him, describing him as "the heart of our family" who was "loved by everyone who knew him." His daughter spoke of the profound void left by his sudden and preventable death.
The court heard that Mr McCombie had been a healthy and active man who was simply enjoying a routine walk in his local neighbourhood when his life was tragically cut short.
Justice Served
Charlie Alliston, of Leigh-on-Sea, pleaded guilty to causing death by careless driving. He was sentenced to an 18-month community order, 250 hours of unpaid work, and disqualified from driving for two years.
Judge Samantha Leigh acknowledged that Alliston had shown genuine remorse but emphasised the tragic consequences of his actions. "This case highlights the devastating impact that momentary carelessness can have," she stated.
Broader Safety Concerns
This tragic case has reignited concerns about the safety of electric bikes and the responsibilities of their riders on UK roads and pavements.
Current legislation treats e-bikes similarly to traditional bicycles when they meet specific criteria, but this incident raises questions about whether updated regulations are needed as these faster vehicles become more common on Britain's streets.
