Driver Jailed For 13 Years Following Road Rage Death

Published on: 2 Aug, 2025
Updated on: 5 Aug, 2025

Neil Sullingston: convicted of manslaughter

A driver was jailed for 13 years on Friday after deliberately driving his car into a moped, resulting in the death of the rider.

Neil Sullingston, aged 53, was travelling to work along the A244 towards Esher on the morning of July 1, 2024. As he approached the traffic lights at the junction with Milbourne Lane, he noticed that a moped was behind him.

Sullingston had previously reported the moped and its rider, 36-year-old Wayne Wigley, in relation to road rage incidents they had both been involved in on May 16 and June 5, 2024.

On the day of the crash, dashcam and CCTV footage captured around 6.19am showed Mr Wigley throwing a rock at Sullingston’s car, causing the rear window to shatter, as both vehicles were approaching the traffic lights.

Mr Wigley then entered the right filter lane and rode off towards the traffic lights. Sullingston moved into the filter lane immediately behind in close pursuit, before driving straight into the back of the scooter, making no attempt to brake or swerve.

Wayne Wigley: died at the scene

Mr Wigley, a father of seven children from Leatherhead, was thrown from his moped. His right lower leg was severed from his body and he suffered catastrophic internal injuries.

Despite the efforts of several members of the public, including an off-duty police officer, a paramedic and a fire officer and subsequent emergency services, Mr Wigley died at the scene.

Sullingston, from Orpington in South London, was convicted of manslaughter.

The Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Chief Inspector Natalie Pearce, said: “Our thoughts are with the family and friends of Wayne Wigley following his death in July last year.

“Sadly, on the day in question, the road rage escalated with fatal consequences. Sullingston deliberately drove at Mr Wigley, intending to cause harm, which ultimately resulted in his death.

“His actions that day were inexcusable and unforgivable, and the fact that he has been imprisoned today for 13 years after being found guilty of manslaughter has ensured he has been brought to justice for the loss of another man’s life.”

Mr Wigley’s family have paid tribute to him, saying: “Wayne is dearly missed by his seven children, his mum, dad, partner, sister and all his friends. He was well loved by all and would do anything for anyone.

“He was strong-minded, loyal, generous and funny. A keen fisherman, a skilled banger racer and a gifted car mechanic.

“We would like to thank all our family and friends for their support, which has helped us through the horror of what has happened.”