Northumberland woman to appear in court on driving charge following death of pensioner at Silverlink Retail Park
A woman has been charged to appear at court following the death of a pensioner who was struck by a vehicle in North Tyneside.
Emergency services were called to Silverlink Retail Park in the North Shields shortly after 5pm on Monday, December 22, last year.
This followed a report that a woman had been struck by a cream and black Renault Captur car as she crossed the road outside the Marks and Spencer store.
The woman – who was later named as 81-year-old former teacher Rita Grimshaw of Whitley Bay – was taken to hospital for treatment of her injuries but she sadly died the following day.
Following her death Rita’s family described her as a ‘devoted mother and proud grandmother’ who had given more than 30 years of her life to teaching.
She was also described as a ‘true pillar of the community’.
An investigation into the collision was launched by Northumbria Police’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit (SCIU).
Linda Hall, aged 64, of Murrayfield in the Seghill area, has now been charged with causing death by careless driving. She is due to appear before North Tyneside Magistrates’ Court on Friday, August 14.
Sergeant Dave Roberts, of Northumbria Police’s Serious Collison Investigation Unit (SCIU), said: “Our thoughts very much remain with Rita’s family and loved ones, and we continue to offer them support following her death.
“Following a thorough investigation a person has now been charged in this case and would ask that members of the public avoid speculation and respect the ongoing legal process.
“To anyone who may have information which could assist the investigation, please get in touch with us.”
Witnesses to the collision or anyone with information should send Northumbria Police a direct message on social media or use the live chat and report forms on the Force’s website.
Anybody who is unable to make contact via the above ways should call 101. Please quote reference number NP-20251222-0752.