Simon Richardson, 35, has been found guilty of murder for a collision that led to the death of Michael Mullins, a 56-year-old headteacher. The incident occurred on April 20 in the village of Warburton, Greater Manchester, as Mullins was cycling home from Stretford Grammar School.

According to court testimony, Richardson drove his Volvo XC90 through give way road markings at a junction in Altrincham, colliding with Mullins. The impact caused Mullins to land on the bonnet and windscreen before becoming trapped under the vehicle, entangled in the suspension. Despite this, Richardson continued to drive for more than a mile, carrying Mullins with him as he traveled to a secluded farm track in nearby Lymm.

Prosecutors argued that Richardson was aware Mullins was beneath the car and deliberately chose to drive onward, knowing the likely consequences. Witness testimony and evidence presented at Manchester Minshull Street Crown Court described how Richardson attempted twice to pull Mullins from under the vehicle, but then returned to the car and drove in a manner that threatened to dislodge the cyclist. Richardson eventually reversed and drove away from the scene after mounting a grass verge, leaving Mullins severely injured.

A motorcyclist later followed a trail of blood from the collision site and found Mullins, who was barely breathing. Emergency services were called but were unable to save him. Mullins, from Northwich, Cheshire, died from multiple injuries sustained in the accident.

Richardson was arrested the following day after a police pursuit and was also found guilty of dangerous driving related to the chase. He denied murder during the trial, claiming he did not realize Mullins was under the car and stating he did not exit his vehicle to free him.

In closing arguments, Richardson’s defense acknowledged his client’s responsibility for the death and his selfish behavior but contested that Richardson was guilty of homicide. The trial judge described the case as distressing and excused the jurors from future jury duty for a decade due to the emotional impact.

After deliberations, the jury returned a verdict of guilty on Wednesday, and sentencing was scheduled for the following Monday. Mullins’ family issued a statement expressing their loss and highlighting his dedication both to them and his role as a headteacher.