UPDATE: A motorist has been sentenced to 15 months in prison after a reckless overtaking maneuver resulted in the tragic death of Sarah Fensom, a dedicated social worker, on September 12, 2023. The collision occurred along the A614 Old Rufford Road in Farnsfield when a highly-modified BMW, driven by Lee Horsley, lost control and crashed into Ms. Fensom’s vehicle.
Authorities report that Ms. Fensom, aged 33, suffered severe injuries including a fractured spine and neck damage. Despite the swift response from bystanders and medical personnel, she succumbed to her injuries three days later in the hospital. The court heard that Horsley, now 31, was overtaking in hazardous wet conditions when the collision occurred, leading to his guilty plea for causing death by careless driving.
Detective Sergeant Paul Clark from Nottinghamshire Police’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit emphasized the danger of Horsley’s vehicle, stating it was a “wolf in sheep’s clothing,” capable of producing 397 brake horsepower. He added, “This was a reckless piece of driving that claimed the life of a much-loved daughter and friend to many.”
Horsley was also handed a driving ban for three years and seven months. The court highlighted the need for all motorists to adjust their driving in line with weather conditions, specifically urging caution in wet conditions to prevent such tragedies.
“Mr. Horsley was aware of the BMW’s immense power and should have adapted his driving,” DS Clark noted, reinforcing the responsibility of drivers to prioritize safety.
As this case concludes, the thoughts of authorities remain with Ms. Fensom’s family, who have displayed incredible strength throughout the legal proceedings. The community is reminded of the critical importance of safe driving, especially under challenging conditions.
This heartbreaking incident serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of reckless driving and the urgent need for all drivers to exercise caution.
