Lorry Driver In Dock After Pensioner Run Over And Killed

A lorry driver killed a 91 year-old man, who was crossing a busy west London road, after failing to check for pedestrian before pulling away, a jury were told yesterday.

Shane Redfearn, 33, of Lawnwood Avenue, Elkesley, Retford, Nottinghamshire was driving along Fulham Palace Road on July 8 when he knocked over John Goulding, who died almost immediately.

Prosecutor Mr. James O'Connell told Islewoth Crown Court: “Last summer this defendant was driving a fully-laden truck with a trailer at 10.30am and Mr. Goulding had just got off a bus and elected, not by the wisest way, to cross the road.

“He walked to the back of the bus and was confronted with the side of this defendant's truck so walked towards the cab of the stationary vehicle and stepped in front of the cab.

“The truck pulled away and the driver drove over Mr. Goulding.

“The truck moved a few yards until a member of the public notified this defendant there was someone under the truck and Mr. Goulding died within a few minutes under the truck.

“This defendant should have seen Mr. Goulding by using his mirrors properly. He has a number of mirrors on that vehicle, including a mirror that looks right down in front of the truck.

“Mr. Goulding was knocked over and killed, but despite him putting himself in that position he should not have been hit and knocked over and killed.

“Mr. Redfearn's driving fell below the standard expected that day.”

Redfearn has pleaded not guilty to one count of causing death by dangerous driving.

Trial continues...............