A disqualified driver high on cannabis, cocaine, and alcohol has been sentenced to over nine years in prison for causing the death of a beloved grandmother in Taunton. Michael Atkinson, 38, was captured on CCTV weaving dangerously across Lisieux Way moments before his white Mercedes Sprinter van struck 77-year-old Sally Blew.
Sally was crossing the road with her bike around 10:10 a.m. on Monday, March 10, when Atkinson’s van collided with her. She passed away shortly afterward in hospital. Tests revealed that Atkinson had cocaine and cannabis in his system at the scene and was also over the legal alcohol limit when in custody. He was already disqualified from driving at the time.
Atkinson pleaded guilty to causing death by driving while disqualified, causing death by dangerous driving, and multiple charges related to driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol. At sentencing, His Honour Judge Paul Cook highlighted that Atkinson was driving at 43 mph in a 30 mph zone at the time of the crash. The judge described Sally Blew as “a kind and gentle soul” whose death has left devastating heartbreak.
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Atkinson was sentenced to nine years and three months in prison and has been banned from driving for nearly 12 years.
In a victim personal statement read during the hearing at Taunton Crown Court on July 11, Sally’s son Paul described the profound impact of his mother’s death: “When the accused killed Sally Blew, he did not just hit and kill my mum with his vehicle; it was as if that day he had struck my entire family and the many others she knew. He took away my mother’s love and support, the emotional strength she offered her siblings, my children, and all who cherished her kindness.”
Police officer Dai Nicholas expressed sorrow for the family’s loss and condemned Atkinson’s reckless actions. “CCTV footage showed Mrs. Blew patiently waiting for a safe moment to cross on foot with her bike. Atkinson admitted he did not intend the collision, but deliberately chose to drive under the influence while still serving a driving ban. His speeding and impaired driving represent three of the ‘Fatal Five’ common causes of serious accidents,” said Officer Nicholas. “The sentence reflects the severe consequences of his dangerous choices.”