Published by Robert L Senior Reporter on Friday 28th March 2025, at 07:05hrs
The family of Keita Mullen, a 30-year-old mother of three, has shared their devastating grief following her death in a hit-and-run collision, as they urge drivers to take responsibility for their actions.
Matthew Harris, 36, of Burcroft Hill, was sentenced to 10 years and eight months in prison at Sheffield Crown Court last week for causing Keita’s death in July 2022.
Harris, who was driving without a license or insurance and had consumed 11 pints of lager, struck Keita and her friend on High Street in Bawtry. He then fled the scene, showing no remorse for his actions.
Keita, whose youngest child was just three and a half months old at the time of her death, was described by her family as a loving mother, sister, and daughter.
During the sentencing, victim personal statements from Keita’s family were read aloud, revealing the profound impact of her loss.
Keita’s mother expressed the immeasurable pain and emptiness she felt, stating,
“I can never put into words what I have lost… The pain and emptiness I feel is indescribable and irreparable.” She also highlighted the devastating impact on Keita’s children, who have “lost the most important person and role model in their life.”
Keita’s father emphasized the stark contrast between Harris’s future freedom and their permanent loss, saying, “One day you will regain freedom. None of us affected by her loss will ever be free to spend time with Keita again. That is entirely your fault.”
PC Andrea Silburn, Keita’s Family Liaison Officer, spoke of the lasting impact of road traffic collisions, stating,
“Road traffic collisions can happen to anyone. We all have a responsibility to create safer roads and ensure our actions, or inactions do not cost someone their life.”
She added that Harris’s “careless and selfish” actions had resulted in a lifetime of pain for Keita’s family.
Keita’s family has released a photo of her, hoping their story will serve as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of irresponsible driving.
They hope to prevent other families from experiencing the same tragic loss.
Our thoughts remain with Keita’s family during this incredibly difficult time.
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