Driver Jailed for Fatal Crash After Deceiving DVLA

A motorist responsible for a man’s death in a collision, after misleading the DVLA about surrendering his driving licence, has received a prison sentence exceeding six years. David Devoy, an individual from Sunderland diagnosed with epilepsy, had been advised against driving less than a month prior to the deadly incident on the A7 at Stanwix Bank, Carlisle, on May 2, 2022. Neil Errington, aged 50, succumbed to his injuries in the crash, which also resulted in injuries to his partner and passenger, Sandra Mallinson, who subsequently experienced “constant” physical and emotional pain. Mr. Devoy, 54 years old, pleaded guilty to charges of causing death by dangerous driving and two counts of fraud through false representation. Proceedings at Carlisle Crown Court revealed that the former Sellafield employee had received warnings against driving subsequent to an incident on April 5, 2022, where he mounted a kerb and halted in close proximity to individuals at a bus stop on West Tower Street in the city. Following this event, Mr. Devoy informed a police officer that he suspected he had experienced an “absent seizure at the wheel” and was advised to voluntarily relinquish his licence. However, the father of two subsequently informed the DVLA that the document was lost and failed to disclose his epilepsy when attempting to rent a vehicle on April 10. On May 2, Mr. Devoy acquired a new BMW 320 from a Carlisle dealership before proceeding onto Scotland Road. The court was informed that he initially collided with a Fiat Punto and then drove “ludicrously quickly,” proceeding towards central Carlisle on the incorrect side of the road. He was recorded travelling at speeds between 76mph and 81mph in an area designated as a 30mph zone when, experiencing another medical episode, he crashed into the rear of Mr. Errington’s Mercedes, which was stationary at traffic lights. Mr. Devoy reportedly told a police officer that he “must have had a funny do,” as disclosed in court. Mr. Errington, a resident of the Carlisle area, was transported by air ambulance to Newcastle, where he passed away 10 days subsequent to the withdrawal of life support. His partner described the collision as being akin to “a bomb going off.” During an impact statement presented in court, Miss Mallinson characterized her life since the incident as a “living hell.” She stated: “I have lost who I was. But the most painful thing I have lost, which I can never get back, is Neil.” She further mentioned that the couple had shared 14 years together and were in the process of renovating their residence. “Our once happy home now stands empty with our dreams in tatters and we will never get to enjoy the life we had been dreaming of together.” Mr. Devoy, residing in Knightswood, Sunderland, was observed weeping in the dock as the details of his offenses were presented. Susan Hirst, acting in mitigation, stated: “He knows that there is nothing that can be said to make up for their loss. He also knows he is entirely responsible for their grief.” Judge Michael Fanning informed him that he ought not to have been driving, adding: “Look what you’ve done. Look what harm you’ve caused. Look what a life you’ve taken.” On Tuesday, Mr. Devoy received a sentence of six years and eight months and was disqualified from driving for a period of 10 years following his release from custody.