The wife of a man tragically killed in what has been described as an “entirely avoidable” accident has delivered an emotional speech in court, revealing how a moment’s carelessness shattered her family’s life.
On October 5, 2024, Tony Stepp, a 53-year-old motorcyclist from South Cerney, was riding near Cirencester with two fellow bikers when he was struck by a car driven by 81-year-old Patrick Kirwin.
During the hearing at Gloucester Crown Court on March 13, Tony’s wife, Tina Stepp, read a moving victim impact statement, sharing the profound loss the family continues to endure. She described Tony as her best friend and the love of her life, and called the crash “preventable,” emphasizing the enduring void left in their lives.
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“On that day, the best part of me died,” Tina said. “Tony was a loving, kind, and thoughtful husband and father who meant the world to us all. His sudden loss has left a massive hole in our hearts and our family.”
Patrick Kirwin, who pleaded guilty to causing death by careless driving, was sentenced by His Honour Judge Ian Lawrie to eight months in prison, suspended for 18 months. Additionally, Kirwin received an 18-month driving ban.
Tina’s statement underscored the heartbreaking reality of the accident: “The knowledge that Tony’s death resulted from a split second of carelessness makes it even harder to bear. This wasn’t just an unavoidable tragedy—it was preventable.”
She recounted the agonizing moment when police officers came to inform her of Tony’s death, a day she will never forget. “Some days are better, some worse, but not a day goes by without me thinking of that moment and the loss of my dear Tony.”
The fatal crash occurred near a crossroads on Tetbury Road, close to The Thames Head Inn. Kirwin, driving an Audi A4, turned right at the junction towards Kemble, cutting across the path of the motorcyclists. Despite the assistance of bystanders, including an off-duty police officer, Tony was pronounced dead at the scene.
In court, Kirwin’s good character and lack of previous driving offenses were noted in mitigation. However, Sergeant Williams of the Gloucestershire Police’s Serious Collision Investigation Team stressed the preventability of the tragedy.
“Tony and his friends took precautions to stay safe by riding in a staggered formation with their lights on,” Sergeant Williams said. “This collision could have been avoided if Kirwin had been more vigilant. I urge all drivers to look twice for motorcyclists and cyclists, especially at junctions, as they are among the most vulnerable road users.”
With spring bringing more motorcyclists and cyclists to the roads, the message of vigilance and care is more important than ever.