Woman admits causing death by careless driving

A WOMAN from Scalloway pleaded guilty to a charge of causing the death of another woman by careless driving when she appeared at Lerwick Sheriff Court on Wednesday.

Justyna Holbourn, of Ingaville Road, admitted failing to make effective use of her car’s mirrors and keeping a proper lookout prior to reversing on the Walls pier on 17 March last year.

The 46-year-old’s Berlingo subsequently collided with a stationary Suzuki Swift car which shunted backwards and collided with Kathleen McLachlan, who was standing at the rear boot of the Suzuki.

The 72-year-old was knocked over and was so severely injured that she subsequently died.

Sentence was deferred for reports, including a restriction of liberty assessment, until 8 August.

Procurator fiscal Duncan Mackenzie said he was reserving a full narration of the case until the next court hearing when Holbourn’s defence solicitor is also due to speak in mitigation.

Sheriff Ian Cruickshank disqualified Holbourn from driving from today’s date.

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