A tragic incident occurred when a lorry driver mistook a homeless woman for a bin bag and ran over her as she slept rough outside a petrol station. Nicole Cummings, 24, was tragically killed by Alec Keiran, 52, while he was making deliveries to Spa shops in Merseyside. The prosecution revealed that Keiran believed he was driving over a bin bag and a folded duvet on the pavement, only to realize too late that it was Nicole sleeping on the ground. The impact caused catastrophic injuries, leading to her death at the scene.
During the trial at Liverpool Crown Court, Vanessa Thompson, Nicole’s mother, emotionally addressed the defendant, questioning, “Why did you do that?” She expressed the immense pain and loss the family has endured, highlighting the irreplaceable gap left by Nicole’s absence. Vanessa shared heartfelt memories of her daughter and the devastating impact of losing her in such a tragic manner.
Witness Robert Stewart recounted the harrowing moments leading up to Nicole’s death, describing how he tried to warn Keiran by sounding his horn but to no avail. Keiran, with a clean driving record, admitted to causing death by careless driving and expressed deep remorse for his actions. The court learned that Keiran’s lorry was equipped with cameras that could have shown Nicole on the ground had he activated the indicator while turning, as per the employer’s advice.
In sentencing, Judge Neil Flewitt KC acknowledged Nicole’s struggles and emphasized that her life was just as valuable despite her circumstances. Keiran was sentenced to one year in prison and handed a driving disqualification for a year. Nicole’s father, Christopher Cummings, reflected on the profound impact of losing his daughter and the void it has left in their lives. Known lovingly as “Nicky Noodles,” Nicole’s family described her as kind, generous, and passionate about music and art.
The heart-wrenching impact of Nicole’s untimely death reverberated through her family, with each member sharing their memories and grief. From a Father’s Day card made during a hospital stay to the lasting pain and disbelief of her absence, the family’s testimonials painted a picture of a life lost too soon. Nicole’s grandmother, Julia Cummings, expressed the enduring pain and memories of her granddaughter, highlighting the lasting effects of the tragic loss on their lives.
The court proceedings shed light on the devastating consequences of a momentary lapse in judgment, resulting in the loss of a vibrant young life. As the family continues to grapple with the aftermath of Nicole’s death, they emphasise the lasting impact and void created by her absence. The trial serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of vigilance and care on the road, highlighting the irreversible consequences of a single mistake.