By Ahmed Abdelsalam
A Manchester jury has found Simon Richardson, 35, guilty of murdering cyclist Michael Mullins by driving over him and dragging his body beneath a Volvo XC90 for more than a mile.
Collision and pursuit
The incident occurred on 20 April when Mullins, 56, a headteacher at Stretford Grammar School, was struck at a junction in Altrincham, Greater Manchester. Richardson drove through give-way markings, hitting Mullins, who became entangled in the vehicle’s suspension.
Evidence of awareness
Prosecutors argued Richardson knew the cyclist was trapped beneath the car. His cousin and front-seat passenger, Gabrielle Debotte, testified that both heard moaning and that Richardson said, “He’s under the car.”
Attempt to dislodge victim
Richardson drove 1.3 miles to a secluded farm track in Lymm, where he twice tried to pull Mullins free before deliberately swerving and mounting a grass verge. The victim was finally released but was run over again as Richardson reversed and fled.
Arrest and verdict
A motorcyclist following a blood trail discovered Mullins barely breathing; he died from multiple injuries. Richardson was arrested the next day after a police pursuit. The jury returned guilty verdicts for murder and dangerous driving on Friday. Sentencing is scheduled for Monday.
