Man who caused cyclist's death in Norwich banned from driving
Jose Da Silva Junior pulled out from Albemarle Road and collided with Jane Blackwell on Newmarket Road, resulting in her death at the scene
A man has been banned from driving for a year after causing the death of a cyclist in Norwich.
Jose Da Silva Junior, aged 65, appeared at Norwich Crown Court today to be sentenced for causing the death of Jane Blackwell by careless driving.
He had pleaded guilty at a previous hearing.
The collision happened at around midday on 20th August 2023 when Jane Blackwell was cycling home after delivering a swimming lesson.
Da Silva Junior pulled out from Albemarle Road and collided with her on Newmarket Road, resulting in her death at the scene.
In addition to the driving ban, Da Silva Junior has been given a two-year community order and must complete 300 hours of unpaid work.
In a personal statement read in court, Jane's daughter shared the family's profound grief and confusion following the loss.
“When we received the news of the collision that afternoon, there were no words to describe the devastation and shock. Our lives changed instantly and irreversibly.
"I flew home the next day to be with my family. What followed was overwhelming grief, confusion, and a sense of chaos. Life stopped. We were left desperate for answers, how could such a healthy, vibrant woman be gone?”
Mark Easter, a collision investigator, stressed the serious consequences of lapses in concentration while driving.
"A momentary lapse in concentration can have devastating and sometimes fatal consequences.
“We see the impact first-hand: families shattered, futures lost, and tragedies that could have been prevented. Every decision behind the wheel matters.
“Stay focused, stay alert, and remember that your attention can be the difference between life and death.”