Shaun Mulligan, 48, from Eastbourne, has been sentenced to five years in prison for causing a fatal crash on the A281 near Henfield. Mulligan was driving a Renault Master scaffolding van westbound when he lost control, colliding with a Suzuki Jimny driven by 71-year-old Jennifer Allen, who tragically died at the scene.
Witnesses reported smelling alcohol on Mulligan, who was trapped in the wreckage. A test three hours later showed he was nearly twice the legal alcohol limit, with 159mg of alcohol per litre of blood. The legal limit is 80mg. He also tested for benzoylecgonine, a cocaine metabolite, with levels slightly over the legal limit.
Mulligan admitted to drinking vodka before driving. Empty vodka bottles were later found in his vehicle.
In court on October 25, Mulligan pleaded guilty to causing death by careless driving while over the alcohol and drug limits. He was also banned from driving for seven and a half years.
Jennifer Allen’s family expressed their profound grief, saying, “It’s extremely difficult to convey the loss and turmoil caused when Jenny’s life was ended by this selfish and reckless behavior.”
Detective Sergeant Ian Foxton commented, “This case tragically demonstrates the devastating consequences of drink and drug driving. Mulligan’s actions posed a serious risk to all road users.”
