Lorry driver killed 'loving family man' in horror motorway crash

A lorry driver who killed a "loving family man" after ploughing into the back of his van on the M11 near Duxford, Cambridgeshire, has been…

Lorry driver killed 'loving family man' in horror motorway crash

A lorry driver who killed a "loving family man" after ploughing into the back of his van on a busy motorway has been jailed.

Misroslaw Muszynski, 69, failed to notice Teesside man Gary Porritt, 43, had slowed for traffic in his Ford Transit Van.

The horror crash happened on the southbound carriageway of the M11, near junction 10 for Duxford, at about 12.15pm on June 12.

Muszynski's HGV pushed the van into the back of another HGV, causing fatal injuries to Mr Porritt.

Mr Porritt, of Exchange Square, Stockton, who had been driving to a fishing trip with friends, was pronounced dead at the scene.

Muszynski remained at the scene and passed breath, drugs, field impairment, and eyesight tests before being arrested.

On Tuesday (September 22), at Huntingdon Law Courts, Muszynski, of Priory Road, Dartford, Kent, was jailed for three years and four months.

He pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving.

He was also banned from driving for six years and eight months.

In a tribute, Gary's family described him as a (Image: Cambridgeshire Police)

DC Kevin Drury said: "Gary Porritt should have been enjoying a fishing trip, but Musyznski's driving meant his life was tragically cut short.

"The sentence reflects the seriousness of the offence and the devastating impact it has had on those who knew and loved Gary.

"No prison sentence can undo the harm that has been caused, but we hope the outcome of these proceedings provides some measure of closure for his family.

"We would urge all drivers, particularly those operating large vehicles, to recognise the immense responsibility they bear every time they get behind the wheel.

"Preventable collisions continue to cost lives and cause lasting heartbreak."

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In a tribute, Mr Porritt’s family said: "Gary was a loving family man, a devoted partner to Claire and a great friend to many.

"He was always willing to help others, loved fishing, and will be remembered for his kindness, generosity and love.

"He has left a void in our family that will never be filled."