A woman from East Yorkshire, Laila Barnard-Wigley, has been spared jail time after causing a tragic “head-on” collision that claimed the lives of a couple while she was rushing to sell beauty products. The incident occurred on a rainy day in May 2021 when Barnard-Wigley’s speeding Mercedes skidded into an oncoming vehicle, resulting in the deaths of Dean Yarrow, 33, and Faye Wardle, 32.
Despite admitting guilt for the careless driving that led to the fatalities, Barnard-Wigley was handed a suspended sentence and a five-year driving ban by the Hull Crown Court. Initially facing charges of dangerous driving, she changed her plea to guilty after a retrial was scheduled due to a hung jury in December 2023.
Prosecutors detailed the events leading up to the tragic accident, highlighting that Barnard-Wigley was overtaking vehicles in wet conditions following heavy rain, ultimately causing the fatal collision. She was reportedly rushing to a beauty salon to sell products, messaging a friend about her intentions to reach the salon before closing time.
Expressing remorse for her actions, Barnard-Wigley’s defense emphasized the tragedy of the situation and her lack of understanding of the risks associated with driving in adverse weather conditions. The court acknowledged her lack of prior convictions, good driving history, and genuine remorse, resulting in a 21-month suspended prison sentence, community service, a curfew, and a five-year driving ban.
Family members of the deceased couple shared their profound grief and loss following the devastating incident, highlighting the impact on their lives. Despite the sentencing, the court recognized the irreversible consequences of the crash and the ongoing pain experienced by the victims’ families.