Hit-and-Run Driver Inhaled Nitrous Oxide Before Fatal Collision with Elderly Cyclist
Cian Byrne, a 20-year-old, struck 81-year-old Graham Slinn at a pedestrian crossing in Todwick, South Yorkshire, while under the influence of nitrous oxide.
Byrne disregarded a red traffic light and was significantly exceeding the 50 mph speed limit at the time of the incident. Evidence presented in Sheffield Crown Court indicated that he had never possessed a driving license and may have been traveling as fast as 80 mph when he collided with Slinn.
On April 4, after hitting Slinn, who was crossing the A57 on foot, Byrne fled the scene with two passengers. Dashcam footage captured the moment, showing his tires smoking as he attempted to regain control of the vehicle. The court also displayed clips of Byrne inhaling nitrous oxide from a yellow balloon both before and after the accident.
Byrne was sentenced to 11 years and six months in a young offenders institution, along with an extended license period of five years, and was banned from driving for 17 years and eight months. He had previously admitted to charges of causing death by dangerous driving and other related offenses.
Mr. Slinn, a retired builder who dedicated his time to caring for adults with learning disabilities, was just weeks away from celebrating his 60th wedding anniversary with his wife, Jaqueline, at the time of the incident.
During sentencing, Judge Jeremy Richardson KC emphasized the extreme danger of inhaling nitrous oxide while driving. He noted Byrne’s troubled upbringing and lack of boundaries, labeling him a dangerous offender who poses a risk to the public.
Byrne had a history of 27 offenses, including dangerous driving, despite lacking a valid license. His defense attorney argued that he fled the scene believing he had only brushed against another vehicle.
Mr. Slinn’s family expressed their grief, describing him as a kind and passionate individual who loved cycling. They shared that he had taken every precaution for safety on the day of the accident, yet was tragically struck by a driver who did not stop.
In a statement, the family conveyed the profound impact of Mr. Slinn’s death, highlighting the shock of losing someone so vibrant and active, especially knowing it was entirely preventable.