Jail for motorist who killed pedestrian

A dangerous driver who killed a pedestrian while speeding has been jailed for more than three years.

Gyokay Gelen, 28, was driving a white Skoda Octavia along the B1428 St Neots Road, in Eaton Socon at about 9pm on 19 April 2023.

He was travelling at excessive speed along the 30mph road when he struck pedestrian Jonathan Mills, 40, who was crossing the road at the time.

Mr Mills, of Eaton Socon, died at the scene.

Gelen provided a positive roadside drugs wipe for cannabis and was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and drug driving.  

During a trial at Peterborough Crown Court on 19 November 2024, the court heard that subsequent analysis of Gelen’s blood specimen showed that he was under the drug-drive limit. 

The court also heard that Gelen had failed to repair a fault with his car’s anti-lock braking system (ABS), despite a warning light on the dashboard.

On Wednesday (19 February), Gelen, of Cambridge Street, St. Neots, was jailed for three years and six months for causing death by dangerous driving after being found guilty by a jury at a trial in November 2024.

Gelen was also handed a driving ban for five years and nine months.

DC Paddy Reeve said: “Gelen chose to drive his car at excessive speeds through a residential area, despite the presence of road signs and street engineering designed to reduce speed.

“Sadly, by driving in this manner, he caused the death of Mr Mills who was innocently crossing the road. 

“During our investigation we were able to prove that, had Gelen been driving within the 30mph speed limit, he would have been able to safely stop his vehicle and avoid colliding with Mr Mills. 

“This tragic case should serve as a reminder to the public to drive at an appropriate speed for the road. Gelen’s dangerous driving has ultimately cost an innocent pedestrian his life.  Our thoughts are with Mr Mills’ family at this time, and we hope this sentence gives them a little bit of closure.”

For more on road safety, please visit the dedicated page on the force website.