### Tragic Case as Newly-Qualified Driver Kills Cardiff Grandfather on Zebra Crossing
In a devastating incident that has left a family mourning and a young driver’s future forever altered, a Cardiff grandfather was struck and fatally wounded by a newly-qualified motorist as he crossed a zebra crossing in January 2023. The case, heard at Cardiff Crown Court, has underscored the lasting consequences a moment’s inattention on the road can have.
On the afternoon of 6 January, Philip Jones, 73, had just stepped off a bus on Llanedeyrn Drive in Cardiff when he began to cross the street via a zebra crossing. Within moments, he was struck by a Ford Fiesta driven by 20-year-old Dima Sarafa, who had recently obtained her driving licence only three months prior to the incident. Witness statements detailed a scene of horror and distress, with accounts of Sarafa crying uncontrollably and vomiting at the roadside as emergency services tended to Mr Jones.
Mr Jones sustained catastrophic injuries, including a fractured skull, a severe wound to the back of his head, significant bleeding on the brain, and a leg injury. Despite the best efforts of paramedics, doctors, and the support of his loved ones, Mr Jones never recovered consciousness and succumbed to his injuries at the University Hospital of Wales on 11 April, after three months in hospital.
Eye-witnesses described the collision as sudden, with no clear evidence that the driver had braked before impact. A passing dog walker recounted hearing a “thud and bang”, turning to see Mr Jones lying on the road behind the stationary vehicle. Bystanders, including a physiotherapist and an off-duty nurse, did their utmost to support him while emergency services were en route, as family members hurried to be by his side.
Sarafa was found to be sober and drug-free at the scene, and when questioned by police, she was deeply distressed and repeatedly claimed she had not seen the pedestrian. Forensic experts later concluded that while glare may have affected Sarafa’s view to some extent, visibility was sufficient to see a pedestrian crossing. Notably, her car was found to be travelling at 24–25mph, exceeding the 20mph zone limit, and there was only evidence of braking immediately prior to the impact.
Prosecuting counsel Byron Broadstock emphasised Sarafa’s lack of experience, having only recently gained her full driving licence. In court, Sarafa admitted causing death by careless or inconsiderate driving and was described by the defence as devastated and full of remorse, having not driven since the collision. Her legal team argued this tragedy stemmed from inexperience, not recklessness.
The human cost of the incident was laid bare in a moving victim impact statement from Mr Jones’ daughter, Beverly. She paid tribute to her “amazing” father, recalling his generosity and devotion to family. She spoke of the family’s heartbreak — months spent in hospital corridors, missed family celebrations, and the agony of watching Mr Jones deteriorate. In her words, the family’s lives had been irrevocably changed: “That day took part of who we were and I am not sure we will ever return to the people we were before.”
Passing sentence, Judge Paul Hobson reflected on the profound loss, asserting that responsibility for the incident lay solely with the defendant and that no sentence could truly compensate for the loss of a full and cherished life. Taking into account Sarafa’s previous good character, the judge imposed a nine-month prison sentence suspended for 18 months. In addition, Sarafa was ordered to complete a 10-day rehabilitation activity, perform 200 hours of unpaid work, and was disqualified from driving for 12 months.
This tragic case is a sobering reminder of the responsibility and vigilance required of all drivers — especially those newly qualified. It has reignited calls for greater support and awareness around road safety, highlighting how a single moment of lost attention can cause enduring suffering for countless lives.
Community reactions have ranged from sympathy for Sarafa’s evident remorse and youth, to sadness and frustration at another preventable road death. For the Jones family, the struggle to rebuild continues, as they seek solace in memories of their beloved father and grandfather. Mr Jones is remembered for his kindness, character, and unwavering family loyalty — qualities his loved ones hope will serve as his true legacy.