Community Shocked as Unlicensed Driver Causes Fatal Accident, Raising Safety Concerns

In a tragic incident that has sent shockwaves through the community of Wistaston, it has been confirmed that the driver responsible for the death of a local man did not possess a valid driving licence at the time of the accident. Oghenevwaire Shittu, 39, was behind the wheel of a green BMW when she struck 65-year-old Stephen Rae as he crossed Nantwich Road on 9 February. The accident, which occurred during daylight hours, has raised serious questions about road safety and the enforcement of driving regulations. According to Cheshire Police, Shittu held a UK provisional driving licence, which she obtained in 2022. However, she was not only operating the vehicle without a full licence but also lacked insurance, compounding the severity of her actions. The legal repercussions of this incident have been swift. Shittu has already pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving at Chester Crown Court. This plea underscores the gravity of the situation, highlighting not only the loss of life but the recklessness exhibited by the driver. Community members have expressed their outrage and sorrow over the incident, as Rae was remembered as a beloved figure in the area. Friends and family have described him as a kind-hearted man who touched the lives of many. The circumstances surrounding his death have raised concerns about the adequacy of licensing enforcement and the potential risks posed by unlicensed drivers on the road. As the investigation continues, local authorities are under pressure to ensure that similar tragedies are prevented in the future. Calls for stricter penalties for unlicensed drivers and heightened awareness of road safety have resonated throughout the community, as residents grapple with the implications of this tragic event. The case serves as a sobering reminder of the responsibilities that come with driving, and the devastating consequences that can arise when those responsibilities are neglected. As Shittu awaits sentencing, the community mourns the loss of Stephen Rae—a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of adhering to the rules of the road.