A heartbreaking incident unfolded on Caerau Road, Maesteg, where a taxi driver tragically ran over Rhian Cassidy, mistaking her for a black bag. Rhian lay unconscious in the road after falling, a mere 10 minutes before the accident. The driver, Lucy Stolzenberg, didn’t stop, and drove off despite her passengers urging her to pull over after feeling a “big bump.” Rhian suffered catastrophic injuries and, despite rescue efforts, was pronounced dead.
Stolzenberg, 74, told the police she thought she was avoiding a black bag and later pleaded guilty to causing death by careless driving and failing to stop. With no prior convictions, she’s deeply remorseful and has been severely affected by this tragic event.
Rhian’s family is devastated, with nephew Mathew sharing heartfelt words about his aunt, her wit, and the profound impact of her loss. They now face family events without her, grappling with painful memories of the day of the accident, which coincided with Mathew’s daughter’s birthday.
The court, acknowledging Stolzenberg’s remorse and mental struggles, sentenced her to 22 weeks imprisonment, suspended for 12 months, alongside a driving ban. The incident serves as a sombre reminder of the critical importance of road awareness and safety. Our thoughts are with Rhian’s family as they look for closure and healing in this difficult time.