Tribute paid to father-of-four, Jonathan Nyashanu, who was killed by drink driver in Earsham crash
The family of a father-of-four have paid tribute to him after the drink driver who killed him was jailed for nine years today.
Jonathan Nyashanu, 40, was killed after a pick up truck driven by Lee Peartree, from Diss, veered into the path of his black Ford S-Max on the A143 towards Diss on October 1, 2023.[1]
Peartree pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving, two counts of causing serious injury by dangerous driving and possession of a class B drug, namely cannabis at an earlier hearing.
The family’s statement said: “Jonathan Nyashanu was born on the 13th of March 1983 and sadly passed away on the 1st of October 2023 following a collision on the A143 along Bungay.
“Jonathan was a man who embodied the essence of grace, love and resilience. He was a source of comfort and strength to all who were fortunate to know him. Jonathan’s life was cut short and he was taken too soon.
“Jonathan will be lovingly remembered by his wife Kudzanai, his four children Bradley, Brandon, Whitney and baby Bryan, his two sisters Emma and Beauty.
Jonathan was a family man full of love and laughter, he was ever smiling, caring and above all he had a heart of gold. We are reminded of the enduring impact of his love and the profound legacy he leaves behind. Jonathan will be dearly missed by his family and friends.
“We would like to extend our appreciation to the paramedics, air ambulance team and police for trying to save our brother's life as well as the witness who stayed with our beloved brother until help arrived. Thank you to our family liaison PC Phil, alongside Chris, for your support and patience during this difficult time.”
Speaking after the sentencing of Peartree, Chris Warner serious collision investigator, said: "This tragic incident was the consequence of one individual’s selfish actions.
“Four children have lost their father as a result of Peartree’s choice to drink and get behind the wheel. He has caused devastation and heartbreak for so many people.
“I hope Jonathan’s family and the passengers injured by Peartree can find some level of comfort from the fact that Peartree will be unable to hurt anyone else in the near future.
“I would also like to thank those members of the public who, when on the night in question suddenly found themselves confronted with this collision, stopped and assisted those involved and ensured Peartree remained at the scene.
Their continued assistance throughout the investigation was greatly appreciated and assisted all involved in reaching this point.”
References
- ^ veered into the path of his black Ford S-Max on the A143 towards Diss on October 1, 2023. (www.dissexpress.co.uk)