Shaun Read, 33, has avoided an immediate jail term after killing a mother of two while driving 22mph over the speed limit on the A580 East Lancashire Road in Wigan. Charlotte Rigby, 36, died instantly after being struck by Read's Vauxhall Insignia at a toucan crossing in March 2024.
Crash Details and Speeding Evidence
Prosecutor Robert Smith told Manchester's Minshull Street Crown Court that Read was driving to work at Manchester Airport shortly after midnight. His usual route was closed, forcing a detour. Dashcam footage showed Read passing three signs displaying the 50mph limit before approaching the junction where the collision occurred. Analysis revealed he was travelling at 72mph.
Ms Rigby had already crossed the eastbound carriageway safely and began crossing the westbound carriageway. A lorry driver had slowed to allow her to cross, but the pedestrian signal was red and the traffic light was green for vehicles. When Read reached the crossing, Ms Rigby started to run, but he collided with her. Police stated that if Read had been at the speed limit, he would never have hit her.
Victim Impact Statements
In a packed public gallery, Ms Rigby's daughter Olivia read an emotional statement: "I both felt cold and numb. It's a feeling I can't put into words... To my mum - I really hope you are happy wherever you are in the stars. I really hope I am doing you proud."
Ms Rigby's father, John Quormby, said: "The loss of her has been immeasurable. This has been made much, much worse by the lack of responsibility accepted by Read. To every parent in this room - there but for the grace of God - it can happen to you."
Defence and Sentencing
Defence barrister Richard Dawson said Read, a HGV driver with a clean record, expressed "genuine shock and genuine remorse." Read had claimed he thought the speed limit was 60mph and that he braked and swerved. However, the judge noted Read had not shown responsibility.
Judge Mark Savill said: "Nothing I say can make amends for the devastating loss... You have not shown any responsibility in this case." He handed Read a 10-month suspended sentence for 18 months, 280 hours of unpaid work, and an 18-month driving ban. The judge said he was "compelled" to suspend the sentence under new guidelines introduced in March 2024.
Family Reaction
The family expressed devastation, stating: "It is an absolute insult to our daughter's memory. Our system is broken. It serves the criminal and not the victim. He's taken our daughter's life and effectively got away with it."
