Woman jailed for six years and eight months following fatal collision in St Helens

A woman who crashed into a cyclist in St Helens and left him to die has been jailed for six years and eight months.

Anya Foster, 32, of Gloucester Street, St Helens, pleaded guilty to causing death by careless driving while over the prescribed limit for two separate controlled substances, driving whilst unfit through drugs, failing to stop after a collision and failing to report a collision.

She was sentenced today, Tuesday 5 November, at Liverpool Crown Court.

Foster was driving a Skoda Fabia on Friday 1 December 2023, when she struck David Burrows (see image below), aged 59, from St Helens, who was riding a pedal bike on Islands Brow, close to its junction with Hinckley Road.

David was taken to hospital for treatment but sadly died of his injuries shortly afterwards.

Instead of staying at the scene to help David, Foster drove off.  Following enquiries she was arrested later that same day, having driven home and was subsequently charged with the offences.

Detective Sergeant Simon Duffy from the Matrix Serious Collision Investigation Unit said: “Foster’s reckless and selfish driving resulted in the death of an innocent man whilst he was riding to work, completely devastating his family.

“Not only did Foster cause the crash, but rather than stop at the scene to help David and face the consequences of her actions, she chose to flee and began to weave a web of lies.

“Our investigation proved that Foster attempted to mislead officers at multiple stages. We have worked tirelessly to establish the full facts and Foster has now been held accountable for her actions.

“Our thoughts remain firmly with David’s family and friends as they continue to deal with the devastating outcome of this heartbreaking incident every day.

"The sentencing comes as Merseyside Police prepares for its annual drink and drug driving campaign, Op Limit. The operation will see dedicated patrols focusing on removing selfish drivers from our roads who choose to drink alcohol or take drugs before getting behind the wheel.

“My message to those who choose to drive whilst under the influence is this: you are not only putting your own life and your own future at risk, but also the lives of innocent people. Is it really worth risking your own life and the lives others?”