Motorist jailed for killing pedestrian in South Yorkshire

Matthew Harris, a 36-year-old man, has been sentenced to 10 years and eight months in prison after causing a fatal hit-and-run. He crashed his car into Keita Mullen, a 30-year-old mother of three, while driving under the influence of alcohol. Harris consumed 11 pints of lager before getting behind the wheel on a July night in 2022 in Bawtry, South Yorkshire. Keita was struck and suffered severe injuries from the collision. Sadly, she later died from those injuries. A friend who witnessed the incident has been left traumatized. After fleeing the scene, Harris was identified through evidence left behind, including his car's wing mirror. Police found Harris’s damaged car at his home days later. During questioning, he refused to answer questions but later pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving. The court sentenced him to 16 years, which was reduced due to his guilty plea. He also received a 12-year driving ban after his release. The police emphasized the serious nature of Harris's actions, calling them reckless and cowardly. Keita's husband, Tom Mullen, shared a heartfelt tribute to her, describing her as a beautiful and talented mother. He promised to raise their children to remember how special she was. Another person, Meryl Chambers, has also been charged in connection with the case and is set to appear in court in March 2026.