Full Breakdown
95-Year-Old Driver Convicted After Fatal Collision at West Midlands Tesco
4/28/2026, 10:32:59 PM
Fatal Collision at Tesco Express
On 17 April, 94-year-old Joan Barwick turned her Vauxhall Corsa into a disabled parking space at a Tesco Express in the West Midlands. While entering the forecourt at about 10 mph, she struck 78-year-old Linda Wareham, who was walking her dog on the pavement. Wareham suffered catastrophic head injuries and died in hospital the following day.
Background and Immediate Circumstances
The prosecution said Barwick was distracted by the free disabled spot and failed to look ahead for seven seconds, missing Wareham on the pavement. CCTV footage showed Barwick’s vehicle entering the forecourt and colliding with the pedestrian. The court affirmed that Wareham had the right of way and was entirely blameless.
Key Figures
The case involved Joan Barwick, a 95-year-old driver who pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving; the victim, Linda Wareham, a 78-year-old pensioner; Tim Harrington, the prosecuting counsel; and Judge Michael Chambers KC, who presided at Wolverhampton Crown Court.
Timeline of Events
The collision occurred on 17 April; Wareham died on 18 April; and on 24 April Wolverhampton Crown Court heard Barwick’s plea and imposed a suspended sentence.
Data and Legal Outcomes
- Driver’s age at the time of the incident: 94; victim’s age: 78.
- Vehicle speed at the turn: approximately 10 mph.
- Conviction: causing death by dangerous driving.
- Sentence: 16-month suspended custodial term; 10-year driving disqualification.
Official Statements and Judicial Reasoning
Prosecutor Tim Harrington argued Barwick’s focus on the parking space, not the road, was a “momentary failure” of concentration that denied Wareham the protection she deserved. Judge Chambers called the incident a “momentary failure to keep a proper lookout,” noted that Wareham was “entirely blameless,” and said Barwick could have stopped had she seen the pedestrian, highlighting the preventable nature of the incident.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Tim Harrington, prosecuting, said: "She was looking not at what was in front of her but at a disabled parking space that was free.” — Tim Harrington, Prosecutor
- “She did not see Mrs Wareham - she had seven seconds to see her but did not.” — Tim Harrington, Prosecutor
- “ He added: "If she had seen Mrs Wareham she would have been able to stop and that is the tragedy of this case.” — Tim Harrington, Prosecutor
- “The incident is recorded on CCTV and is graphic.” — Judge Michael Chambers KC
- “I am satisfied that Mrs Wareham is entirely blameless.” — Judge Michael Chambers KC
What’s Next
Barwick, now 95, received a 10-year driving ban, which will extend well beyond typical driving age, effectively ending her ability to drive. No further criminal action is expected, though the case has sparked local discussion on road safety and the duty of drivers of all ages to maintain full attention while operating a vehicle.
