CPS explains decision not to charge mother over son's death in crash

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 2 Nov, 16:39 · Archive

The Crown Prosecution Service declined to prosecute a mother for causing death by careless driving after her five-year-old son died in a crash she caused near Bicester on 14 April 2024.

Darcie Hickman's five-year-old son Teddy died at the scene of a crash on the B4011 in Blackthorn near Bicester on 14 April 2024. During the same incident, Hickman struck motorcyclist Paul Twinner, in his 40s, who was taken to John Radcliffe hospital with serious injuries.

Hickman was charged with causing serious injury by careless driving but the Crown Prosecution Service decided not to pursue a charge relating to her son's death. A CPS spokesman said the decision took account of 'all of the circumstances, including the fact that Darcie Hickman tragically lost her five-year-old son in the crash, as well as the family's views on a potential prosecution'. The service concluded a prosecution 'would not be in the public interest'.

On 20 October, Hickman pleaded guilty to causing serious injury by careless driving. She was ordered to pay a £266 surcharge, £85 in court costs and a £666 fine, and was banned from driving for 12 months. A coronial inquest will be held into the circumstances on a date to be confirmed.

How it is being reported

• CPS reveals why woman, 37, was not charged for death of boy, 5, in crashThe Crown Prosecution Service has revealed why charges were not brought against a mum who crashed a car which resulted in the death of her five-year-old son.Oxfordshire Guardian · 2 Nov, 16:00
• CPS reveals why woman, 37, was not charged for death of boy, 5, in crashThe Crown Prosecution Service has revealed why charges were not brought against a mum who crashed a car which resulted in the death of her five-year-old son.Oxford Mail · 2 Nov, 16:00

In this story: Darcie Hickman · Teddy Hickman · Paul Twinner · Crown Prosecution Service · Bicester · Blackthorn

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