Devon bus driver jailed for running over pedestrian

Simon Mumford pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving

A former Plymouth bus driver has been jailed for two years for causing the death of a pedestrian whilst at work.

54 year-old Simon Mumford from Ladysmith Road in the city was seen on bus CCTV lowering his glasses, and reading a piece of paper for four seconds and went through a traffic light controlled pedestrian crossing, hitting Amallia Elmasry who was crossing the road.

She was pronounced dead at the scene.

He appeared at Plymouth Crown Court for sentence on Thursday 12 December having pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving at a previous hearing.

Mr Mumford was also disqualified from driving for six years and must sit an extended retest before he regains his licence.

The court heard how at around 6.20pm  on Sunday 7 January 2024 Mumford was driving a single decker City Bus through Plymouth.

He made various stops, lastly at the train station bus stop, before leaving and negotiating North Cross Roundabout. Mumford then travelled along Western Approach towards the traffic light controlled pedestrian crossing situated by the Sainsbury’s store vehicle entrance.

Police sergeant Samantha Pullen from the Serious Collisions Investigations Team said: “This is tragic case which again demonstrates that even relatively brief periods of distraction on the road can have fatal consequences.

“There is no doubt Simon Mumford did not intend to take a life that day, but by taking his eyes off the road to read the piece of paper, he did not spot Amallia Elmasry crossing, leading to the collision that resulted in her tragic death.

“We’d like to express our sincere condolences to Mrs Elmasry’s family and remind motorists that regardless of what vehicle they drive, they must remain focussed on the road at all times to ensure the safety of themselves and others.”