Driver sentenced for fatal crash on hospital grounds

A 70-year-old motorist who lost control of her car, colliding with a group of pedestrians including a child in a pram, has been sentenced at Swansea Crown Court.

Bridget Curtis was taking her daughter for an appointment at Withybush Hospital in Haverfordwest and had stopped the car at a drop off point on 21 June 2023.

When her daughter got out and went to retrieve her handbag from the rear seat, Curtis turned to help her.

It was at that point Curtis lost control of the vehicle which accelerated forwards colliding with a group of people waiting in the grounds. 

The car struck a pram which had eight-month-old Mabli Hall in it, who later died of her injuries. 

Michael Cray of the CPS said: “Bridget Curtis tried to look for a handbag on the rear seat whilst still controlling the vehicle’s pedals. 

“As a result, she lost control of the car injuring bystanders and causing the death of a baby.

“Curtis’ actions had fatal consequences and serve as a reminder to all motorists of the serious responsibilities that come with being a driver.

“Nothing can change the tragic events of that day, and although the criminal case has concluded our thoughts remain with Mabli’s family over their heartbreaking loss, and with everyone who received injuries on that day.”

Bridget Curtis was sentenced on 23 January 2025 to four years’ imprisonment, was disqualified from driving for eight years and ordered to take an extended retest.