Murder Trial: Driver Allegedly Dragged Cycling Headmaster

By the Editorial Team · Thursday, October 15, 2026

Simon Richardson, 35, is on trial for the murder of Michael Mullins, a headmaster who was struck and dragged over a mile by Richardson’s vehicle while cycling in Manchester. The case hinges on claims that Richardson ignored traffic signs, continued driving despite knowing someone was trapped under his car, and attempted to dislodge Mullins, who later died at the scene.

A man is on trial accused of killing a headmaster who was struck by a vehicle while cycling in April. Michael Mullins, 56, head of Stretford Grammar School in Manchester, was cycling home when he was hit by a Volvo XC90, the prosecution told Minshull Street Crown Court.

Simon Richardson, 35, is charged with murder in connection with the incident. Court proceedings revealed that Richardson allegedly drove through give way signs before colliding with Mullins. Following the impact, the vehicle reportedly dragged Mullins for over a mile along the road.

Eyewitness testimony described how Richardson continued to drive despite being aware that someone was trapped underneath the car. The court heard that he even swerved as if attempting to dislodge the victim.

A motorcyclist, Andrew Besant-Roberts, followed a trail of blood along the road, which led him to discover Mullins near the roadside. Emergency services were called, but Mullins was pronounced dead at the scene. The victim, a father from Northwich, Cheshire, suffered fatal injuries as a result of the collision.

Richardson has denied the murder charge. The trial is ongoing as prosecutors present evidence regarding the circumstances of the incident and Richardson’s conduct before and after the collision.

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