Jail for motorcyclist who killed pedestrian
A MAN has been sentenced for causing death by dangerous driving following a hearing at Reading Crown Court.
On Friday, February 24, Lawrence Tozer, aged 26 and of no fixed abode, was convicted by unanimous jury and sentenced to six-and-a-half years imprisonment.
He was also served a four-year driving ban.
The sentencing follows an incident on Saturday, May 23, 2020, when Tozer was riding a Yamaha motorcycle with excess speed and in an erratic manner on Kings Road.
While passing the pedestrian crossing in Cemetery Junction, Tozer was involved in a collision with a 76-year-old pedestrian, Brigid Ita Guidera.
She was struck by the motorcycle and died as a result.
Tozer was later found to have been travelling in excess of 60mph, more than twice the speed limit of 30mph, and had cannabis in his blood, exceeding the legal limit.
Detective Sergeant Tony Jenkins, of the Serious Collison Investigation Unit, said: ‘’I would like to thank the jury for their swift decision in this case and the large number of witnesses that provided evidence at court throughout the week.
“I know that no sentence passed will make amends for the tragic loss of Brigid, who was also known as Ita to her family and friends, as she was full of life, fit and healthy.
“I would also like to thank the family for their support throughout our investigation, which I know has been a very difficult time for them.
“Tozer showed no regard for other road users, he recklessly changed lane at the very last second and rode through a busy junction at excessive speed.
“This highlights again the fatal four contributors to deaths on our roads, with excessive speed and drug-driving being significant factors in this case.’’