Driver Admits Causing Death of Mother Pushing Pram

Published: 25 February 2026 . The English Chronicle Desk. The English Chronicle Online

A lorry driver has pleaded guilty to causing the death of a 30‑year‑old mother whose life was tragically cut short when she was struck by equipment jutting from the rear of his vehicle while walking with her young child. The admission came at Peterborough Crown Court this week, as the prosecution and defence agreed a reduced charge following earlier preparations for trial.

The victim, Rebecca Ableman, from Willingham in Cambridgeshire, was walking along the B1050 Station Road in September 2022 with her two‑year‑old daughter Autumn when she was hit in the head by crane equipment that was unsecured on the back of a lorry driven by Kevin Miller, 71, of Gayton Road, King’s Lynn, Norfolk. Witnesses reported that parts of the load were hanging over the edge of the trailer and posed a clear risk to other road users before the collision occurred.

Ms Ableman sustained severe head and brain injuries in the incident and died in hospital three weeks later. Prosecutors told the court that Miller had been transporting scrap metal, including the crane equipment, from King’s Lynn docks to depots in Essex and Cambridgeshire when the equipment became detached and struck her. Miller initially denied charges of causing death by dangerous driving, but after discussions between Crown Prosecution Service lawyers, police and the victim’s family, he admitted causing death by careless or inconsiderate driving on Tuesday.

The judge overseeing the case ordered preparation of a pre‑sentence report and confirmed that Miller — who remains on unconditional bail — will be sentenced on 14 April. Prosecutors and defence counsel agreed that the threshold for a custodial sentence has been met, and the court was told the plea reflects evidential complexities in proving dangerous driving at trial.

Family members and local community supporters have previously paid tribute to Ms Ableman, describing her as a devoted mother and an NHS worker who was loved by those around her. Her partner noted that her final act was to protect their daughter, helping to push the pram out of the path of danger as the collision unfolded.

The case underscores ongoing concerns about road safety and the secure transportation of heavy equipment, particularly on routes shared by pedestrians and vehicles. The sentencing next month will take into account the gravity of the loss and the circumstances of the plea.

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