Driver jailed after his crane hit mum pushing pram
Driver Jailed After Crane Equipment Strikes Mother Pushing Pram
Kevin Miller, a 71-year-old lorry driver from King’s Lynn, Norfolk, received a 13-month prison sentence following a tragic incident in Willingham, Cambridgeshire. The accident occurred on September 22, 2022, when Rebecca Ableman, a 30-year-old NHS healthcare assistant, was fatally injured by loose crane equipment while walking with her two-year-old daughter, Autumn, on a village pavement.
Incident and Legal Proceedings
Ableman was struck from behind as she exited a farm shop on Station Road. The crane’s unsecured grabber, which was dangling over the trailer, collided with her head. She sustained severe brain injuries and passed away three weeks later. Miller had initially denied causing death by dangerous driving but later admitted to careless or inconsiderate driving during a trial halted in April 2025. His second trial began in February 2025, but he settled the case before evidence was presented.
“Securing the crane unit would have been the work of moments,” said Judge Matthew Lowe during the sentencing hearing at Peterborough Crown Court.
Family Statements and Defense Arguments
Ableman’s father, Russell, described her final act as pushing Autumn away, calling her a “hero” for her dedication to supporting patients with mental health issues at Fulbourn Hospital. Her mother, Susann, expressed relief that Autumn remained unharmed. Miller’s partner, Chris Tuczemskyi, emphasized the lack of safety measures, urging the court to prioritize caution in such situations.
Defense barrister John Dye highlighted Miller’s 40 years of experience securing cranes without straps, labeling the accident a “freak event.” He noted Miller had no prior driving convictions and was devastated by the impact on the Ableman family. Prosecutors, however, argued that the crane boom “slewed” to the nearside due to inadequate maintenance and failed to secure the equipment properly.
Legal Findings and Consequences
Judge Lowe concluded that Miller’s negligence in securing the crane was directly responsible for Ableman’s death. He criticized the driver’s “slipshod” approach to vehicle upkeep and cited industry guidance as a factor in the ruling. Miller was also banned from driving for two years after his release. “The overall impression I get is of a generally slipshod approach to maintenance,” the judge added.
Prosecutors stated Miller had been transporting scrap metal from King’s Lynn to March and had used the B1050 road to avoid heavy traffic. The crane’s boom, which was not adequately secured, moved unexpectedly, leading to the collision. Miller claimed he was unaware of the incident until questioned by police, saying, “What’s happened mate? I ain’t hit no-one,” and would have stopped had he known.
Community Impact and Legacy
The case has sparked discussions about workplace safety and the risks of unsecured heavy machinery. Ableman’s partner described the tragedy as “unfathomable,” underscoring the emotional toll on the family. Her legacy lives on as a symbol of dedication and care, even in the face of a preventable accident.
If you have a story suggestion for Cambridgeshire, contact us below. Follow Cambridgeshire news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram, and X for updates.
