Driver Who Burnt Car After Killing Mum Jailed for Seven Years

Kiel Sanderson Jailed for Over Seven Years Following Fatal Reversing Collision in Queensbury

A 40-year-old man who reversed over a mother-of-two following a violent argument and then deliberately set his vehicle on fire has been sentenced to more than seven years in prison. Kiel Sanderson, of Calderstone Avenue, Bradford, was found guilty of causing the death of Donna Smith, aged 48, by dangerous driving at Bradford Crown Court. The sentencing, which took place on 11 November, has brought a conclusion to a harrowing case that has left a family devastated and a community in shock.

Daily Dazzling Dawn understands that the incident occurred outside Ms Smith's home on Hillcrest Drive in Queensbury in August of last year. The court heard that a confrontation unfolded between the two parties, during which Sanderson used his car as a weapon, reversing at speed and striking the victim. Following the collision, in a calculated attempt to conceal evidence, Sanderson set the car alight moments after the fatal impact. He had previously admitted to perverting the course of justice in relation to the arson.

The Honorary Recorder of Bradford, His Honour Judge Mansell KC, handed down a custodial sentence of seven years and two months for causing death by dangerous driving. In addition to the prison term, Sanderson has been disqualified from driving for eight years and seven months. Furthermore, the court ordered that he must pass an extended re-test before he is legally permitted to drive again, reflecting the serious nature of the offences and the danger he poses behind the wheel.

Sanderson had been found guilty of the dangerous driving charge following a trial. The dual convictions—for the fatal driving and the subsequent destruction of evidence—have been met with relief by the investigating authorities, who have worked tirelessly to secure a conviction in this complex case.

In the aftermath of the sentencing, the family of Donna Smith released a statement through police, expressing their profound sense of loss and the difficulty they have faced in coming to terms with the circumstances of her death. Daily Dazzling Dawn learned that the family emphasised that no sentence could ever serve as sufficient justice for their loss.

"We know that no sentence will bring Donna back," the family statement read. "She was a daughter and a mum to her two sons. She is missed, so very much. It has been particularly hard to come to terms with how Donna died."

The family also took the opportunity to thank the Police Investigation team for their dedication and hard work, which they say helped secure the conviction of the man responsible. They praised the support they received from their Family Liaison officers, specifically thanking DC Jan Burrill, Police investigator Richard Peckett, and the officer in the case, Detective Sergeant Wright and his team. The statement concluded with gratitude to the prosecution team and the jury, noting that their support has helped the family through a "dark and challenging time."

The investigation into the death of Donna Smith required extensive forensic work and witness testimony, particularly given the destruction of the vehicle involved. The successful prosecution underscores the commitment of West Yorkshire Police and the Crown Prosecution Service to bringing those who use vehicles as weapons to justice, even when they attempt to destroy evidence.

The sentencing at Bradford Crown Court serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of dangerous driving and the severe penalties faced by those who attempt to obstruct the course of justice. Kiel Sanderson now begins a lengthy prison sentence, while the family of Donna Smith are left to rebuild their lives without a beloved mother and daughter.

This case has resonated deeply within the Queensbury and Bradford community. The court's decision to impose an extended re-test and a lengthy disqualification period aims to protect the public and ensure that such a tragedy is not repeated. As the legal proceedings conclude, the focus now shifts to supporting the family of Donna Smith as they continue to navigate their grief.