A 22-year-old man has pleaded guilty to causing the death of a woman by dangerous driving. Emergency services had been called to the A30 near Hayle on the evening of July 27, 2023, after reports of a three vehicle collision at Loggans involving a Renault Clio, Renault Twingo and a Hyundai i20.
At the time, it was reported that despite the best efforts of responders, the driver of the Twingo – a woman from the Penzance area – was sadly pronounced deceased at the scene. She was later revealed to be Melissa Polglase, aged 30.
The two occupants of the Hyundai sustained minor injuries.
The driver of the Clio, Jack Molin, sustained serious injuries and was taken to Derriford Hospital.
Molin, now aged 22, of Highfield Road, Falmouth, appeared at Plymouth Crown Court today, where he pleaded guilty to one charge of causing the death of Melissa Polglase by dangerous driving.
The prosecution requested an interim driving disqualification be made as of today, which was agreed by Judge Matthew Turner.
Judge Turner granted Molin conditional bail ahead of a sentencing hearing on Tuesday, February 25. He agreed to a pre-sentence report being compiled but warned Molin that the sentence he faced was “very likely” to be one of custody.
In August, 2023, tributes were paid to Melissa online. The initial funeral announcement read: “Tragically on Thursday, July 27, 2023, Melissa Hannah, aged 30 years of Penzance. Dearly loved daughter of Geoffrey and Caroline, much loved Sister of Jessica.”
Then Melissa’s employer, Penderlaw, posted: “We are heartbroken to announce the death of our much loved and respected friend and colleague, Melissa Polglase, who tragically passed away on Thursday, July 27.
“Our hearts go out to her family and loved ones, and we send out deepest condolences to them at this awful time.
“Mel joined Penderlaw in 2015. She began her training contract in 2017, qualifying as a solicitor in 2019, and had become highly regarded in her chosen field of litigation.
“Mel was a complete force of nature; brave, intelligent, energetic, and passionate about her work. She was also a real live wire outside of the office, ready to grab any opportunity that came her way.
“We will all miss her beautiful smiling face, and are finding it so hard to take in the news that our wonderful friend and colleague has passed away at such a young age.”
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