Dangerous driver Ryan Selby jailed for causing death of Hastings dad

Ryan Selby, 23, showed a “flagrant disregard for the rules of the road” when he was driving on the A259 Rye Road, Hastings, on March 9, 2021, a court heard.

He was seen overtaking several vehicles travelling towards Hastings, reaching estimated speeds of between 107mph and 113mph when his vehicle struck father-of-three Oli Paxton.

Father-of-three Oli Paxton (Image: Sussex Police)

He drove into the white cross-hatched area of the road where Mr Paxton was crossing the road, without braking, and struck him. Selby then stopped further up the road.

Mr Paxton died at the scene from his injuries.

His family described him as a “beloved husband, wonderful father, and cherished friend”.

Read more: Family’s life ‘destroyed’ by dangerous driver who caused death of devoted husband

Selby, a factory worker, of Burry Road, St Leonards, appeared before Lewes Crown Court on October 20 where he admitted causing death by dangerous driving.

Ryan Selby has been jailed for causing the death of Oli Paxton by dangerous driving (Image: Sussex Police)

He was sentenced to a total of seven and a half years in prison and was disqualified from driving for eight years and three months.

The court heard how the incident unfolded, with witnesses describing Selby driving “aggressively” to get past other drivers through Guestling.

He drove at high speed up the hill, but apparently did not see Mr Paxton because of the low setting sun.

Rule 237 of the Highway Code states: “If you are dazzled by bright sunlight, slow down and if necessary, stop.”

Judge Christine Laing KC, sentencing, told Selby: “You showed a flagrant disregard for the rules of the road and for how dangerous your driving was to other road users, your utter disregard is staggering.

Ryan Selby's car after the crash (Image: Sussex Police)

“I am in no doubt you did not see Oli Paxton due to your ludicrous speeds, despite the fact it was a residential area with two schools in the vicinity.

“You couldn’t have failed to know you were driving at a grossly excessive speed. You made a clear and obvious choice to drive at this speed.

“Your driving was so appalling that other road users changed their route home so they wouldn’t encounter you.”

Speaking after the case, investigator Tudor Wells from the Serious Collision Investigation Unit, said: “This incident has had a devastating impact on the family of a much-loved father and husband.

“Selby habitually drove recklessly, and on March 9, 2021, this had tragic consequences which demonstrate the appalling consequences of driving at excess speed.

“It is the responsibility of all motorists to ensure they abide by the speed limit and road safety laws, and to drive safely.”